napkin

noun

nap·​kin ˈnap-kən How to pronounce napkin (audio)
Synonyms of napkinnext
1
: a piece of material (such as cloth or paper) used at table to wipe the lips or fingers and protect the clothes
2
: a small cloth or towel: such as
a
dialectal British : handkerchief
b
chiefly Scotland : kerchief
c
chiefly British : diaper sense 1
3
: sanitary napkin

Examples of napkin in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Just do not wear leather on the bottom half, lest your napkin slide off, too. — Judith Martin, Sun Sentinel, 27 June 2026 Themed napkins are an easy way to turn a simple lunch into a fun spread. — Rebecca Jones, Southern Living, 27 June 2026 All decor, plates and napkins, cards and candy will be 50% off until closing. — Neal Riley, CBS News, 29 June 2026 These sweet gingham napkins from Tory Burch are $50 off right now. — Kate McGregor, Architectural Digest, 1 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for napkin

Word History

Etymology

Middle English nappekin, from nape tablecloth, from Anglo-French, from Latin mappa napkin

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of napkin was in the 14th century

Phrases Containing napkin

Browse Nearby Words

napiform
napkin
napkin pattern
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Napkin.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/napkin. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

napkin

noun
nap·​kin ˈnap-kən How to pronounce napkin (audio)
1
: a small square of cloth or paper used during a meal to wipe the lips or fingers and protect the clothes
2
: a small cloth or towel
Etymology

Middle English nappekin "napkin," from nappe "tablecloth," derived from Latin mappa "napkin" — related to apron, map

Medical Definition

napkin

noun
nap·​kin ˈnap-kən How to pronounce napkin (audio)
1
chiefly British : diaper
2
: sanitary napkin

More from Merriam-Webster on napkin

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for napkin

Nglish: Translation of napkin for Spanish Speakers

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