French translation of napkin is 
serviette de table

Meaning of "napkin" in English

A "napkin" is a small piece of cloth or paper used at mealtimes to clean the mouth and fingers while eating. It is an essential dining accessory in many cultures, often placed on the lap or next to a plate. Napkins can also serve decorative purposes, being folded in various ways to enhance table settings. They are particularly useful for protecting clothing from food spills and keeping diners tidy. In some contexts, napkins also refer to items used in restaurants and at parties for convenience and hygiene.

Meaning of "serviette de table" in French

The term "serviette de table" in French refers to a napkin used during meals to maintain cleanliness. It serves a similar purpose to that of the napkin in English-speaking regions, providing a means to wipe one's mouth and hands while eating. The serviette de table is a common item in restaurants and homes, often crafted from fabric for formal occasions and from paper for casual settings. Its use is widespread in French culture, emphasizing etiquette and tidiness at the dining table.

Pronunciation of "napkin" in English

Phonetic Transcription: [ˈnæp.kɪn]

Pronunciation Variations: In American English, it is commonly pronounced with a clear 'æ' sound, as in "nap." In British English, the pronunciation remains largely similar, but with a slightly softer 'a' sound, depending on the speaker's regional accent.

Pronunciation of "serviette de table" in French

Phonetic Transcription: [sɛʁ.vjɛt də tabl]

Pronunciation Variations: The pronunciation of "serviette de table" is generally consistent throughout French-speaking regions, with slight variations in the nasal quality of certain vowels depending on local dialects, such as in Parisian versus Southern French accents.

Sentence examples in English and translation to French

1. She placed a napkin on her lap before starting her meal.
   (Elle a mis une serviette de table sur ses genoux avant de commencer son repas.)

2. Can you hand me a napkin, please?
   (Peux-tu me passer une serviette de table, s'il te plaît ?)

3. The waiter folded the napkin into an elegant shape.
   (Le serveur a plié la serviette de table en une forme élégante.)

4. After spilling his drink, he quickly grabbed a napkin.
   (Après avoir renversé sa boisson, il a rapidement attrapé une serviette de table.)

5. She wiped her face with a napkin after eating.
   (Elle s'est essuyée le visage avec une serviette de table après avoir mangé.)

6. The restaurant used cloth napkins for an upscale look.
   (Le restaurant utilisait des serviettes de table en tissu pour un aspect chic.)

7. He forgot to bring a napkin to the picnic.
   (Il a oublié d'apporter une serviette de table au pique-nique.)

8. The napkin had a beautiful floral pattern.
   (La serviette de table avait un beau motif floral.)

9. Guests are encouraged to place their napkins on their laps.
   (On encourage les invités à mettre leur serviette de table sur leurs genoux.)

10. She carefully unfolded the napkin before beginning her meal.
    (Elle a soigneusement déplié la serviette de table avant de commencer son repas.)

Synonyms, antonyms, and similar words for "napkin" in English

Synonyms: serviette, tissue, handkerchief, cloth, towel, paper napkin, table napkin.

Antonyms: -

Similar Words: tablecloth, placemat, runner, coaster, dining cloth, dish towel, kitchen towel.

Synonyms, antonyms, and similar words for "serviette de table" in French

Synonyms: essuie-bouche, linge, torchon, nappe, serviette en tissu, serviette en papier.

Antonyms: -

Similar Words: nappe, dessous-de-plat, chemin de table, torchon de cuisine.

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