noun
la serviette
towel
Objet en tissu utilisé pour s’essuyer les mains, le visage ou le corps, ou pour protéger ses vêtements pendant un repas.
Definition & meaning
The word serviette has two primary meanings in French:
- Table napkin: A piece of cloth or paper used at the table to protect clothes or to wipe the mouth and hands while eating.
- Briefcase or folder: A flat case for carrying documents, papers, or a laptop. In this context, it is often referred to as a serviette de travail or serviette porte-documents.
Grammar & Word origin
- Grammar: It is a feminine noun (une serviette).
- Word origin: The word originates from the Old French servir (to serve). Historically, it was a piece of linen used by those who served at the table. It shares the same root as the English word "service".
Synonyms & antonyms
Synonyms for the "napkin" meaning:
Synonyms for the "briefcase" meaning:
Antonyms: There are no direct antonyms for this noun.
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Examples
La serviette de bain est encore humide.noun
The bath towel is still damp.
As-tu pris les serviettes pour la plage ?noun
Did you take the towels for the beach?
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