napkins

/ˈnæpkɪnz/

NOUN

1. Pieces of cloth or paper used for cleaning the mouth and hands while eating

Usually rectangular pieces of cloth or paper used at meals to wipe the mouth and hands for cleanliness.

1.1. Table napkins or serviettes

Pieces of paper or fabric used during meals to wipe the mouth and hands or keep the dining area clean.

Synonyms

  • serviettes
  • tissues
  • towels

Examples

  • The restaurant supplied soft, cloth napkins for the diners.
  • During the barbecue, guests reached for paper napkins to wipe their hands.
  • She folded the colorful paper napkins into creative shapes for the table.

Related Words

NOUN

2. Diapers or nappies

Absorbent coverings worn by babies to collect urine and feces.

2.1. Baby diapers

Cloth or disposable absorbent garments worn around a baby's lower body to contain bodily waste.

Synonyms

Examples

  • The parents packed extra napkins for the baby during their trip.
  • Reusable cloth napkins were traditionally used as baby diapers.

Related Words

  • changing pads
  • absorbent liners
  • baby pants
  • incontinence pads

NOUN

3. Small head coverings worn by Christian women in church

Small scarves worn on the head by some Christian women, particularly Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox women, as a sign of modesty when entering a church.

3.1. Religious head coverings

Small pieces of cloth worn over the head by women during church visits or religious observances.

Synonyms

Examples

  • The women wore traditional napkins when entering the church.
  • She folded the small head covering neatly before placing it over her hair.

Related Words

NOUN

4. Sanitary napkins

Absorbent hygiene products worn inside underwear to collect menstrual blood.

4.1. Menstrual hygiene products

Absorbent pads used during menstruation to collect menstrual flow and maintain personal hygiene.

Synonyms

  • sanitary pads
  • sanitary towels
  • menstrual pads
  • period pads

Examples

  • The pharmacy stocked several brands of sanitary napkins.
  • She kept extra napkins in her bag for emergencies.

Related Words

  • pantyliners
  • tampons
  • menstrual cups
  • feminine hygiene products