noun

die Serviette, -n

napkin

The German word "Serviette" is a feminine noun meaning "napkin" or "serviette" (a small piece of cloth or paper used at the dining table).

  • The word is borrowed from French serviette, which originally comes from servir meaning "to serve".
  • It doesn't break down into smaller German components beyond its borrowing root.

Similar words:

  • Tischdecke (tablecloth) – larger cloth covering the table.
  • Handtuch (towel) – used mainly for drying hands.
  • Taschentuch (handkerchief) – small cloth for personal hygiene.

Differences:

  • "Serviette" is specifically for dining use.
  • "Tischdecke" covers the table, not for personal use.
  • "Handtuch" and "Taschentuch" are for drying or hygiene, not generally used during meals.

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Examples

Anna legt die Serviette auf den Tisch.noun

Anna puts the napkin on the table.

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