Napkin

Napkin

A napkin or serviette is a piece of cloth or paper used at the table for wiping the mouth and fingers while eating. It is usually small and folded, sometimes in intricate designs and shapes. The word comes from Middle English, borrowing the French nappe—a cloth covering for a table—and adding -kin, the diminutive suffix.

History

The history of napkins is as old as the history of linen, textile, and weaving. The earliest references to napkins in history date back to ancient Roman times, where linen was used to wipe hands clean at the dinner table.

Types of Napkins

There are several types of napkins that are used for different purposes and occasions. These include:

• Dinner napkins: These are typically larger and made of cloth. They are used in formal dining settings and are often folded in a decorative manner.

• Cocktail napkins: These are smaller napkins used during cocktail hours. They are typically used to hold glasses to prevent condensation from wetting a person's hands or to serve small appetizers.

• Dispenser napkins: These are commonly found in restaurants or cafeterias where large quantities of napkins are needed.

• Sanitary napkins: These are a type of feminine hygiene product that is worn by women while they are menstruating.

Usage

Napkins are used in a variety of ways, depending on the culture and the situation. In Western cultures, the napkin is often folded and placed to the left of the place setting, outside the outermost fork. In an informal setting, the napkin is often placed on the lap immediately upon sitting down.

Environmental Impact

The production and disposal of napkins contribute to environmental pollution. Cloth napkins are more environmentally friendly than paper ones as they are reusable.

See Also

• Tablecloth
• Handkerchief
• Tissue paper
• Toilet paper

References

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