ETYM Dim. of Old Fren. nape a tablecloth, cloth, French nappe, Latin mappa. Related to Napery.
To protect clothing; wipe mouth; SYN. table napkin, serviette.
1. A piece of material (as cloth or paper) used at table to wipe the lips or fingers and protect the clothes.
2. A small cloth or towel; as a dialect British; handkerchief.
3. Sanitary napkin.