n. 1 (in full table napkin) a square piece of linen, paper, etc. used for wiping the lips, fingers, etc. at meals, or serving fish etc. on; a serviette. 2 Brit. a baby's nappy. 3 a small towel. napkin-ring a ring used to hold (and distinguish) a person's table napkin when not in use.
[ ME f. OF nappe f. L mappa (MAP) ]