Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Napkin \Nap"kin\, n. [Dim. of OF. nape a tablecloth, cloth, F.
   nappe, L. mappa. See {Napery}.]
   1. A little towel, or small cloth, esp. one for wiping the
      fingers and mouth at table.

   2. A handkerchief. [Obs.] --Shak.

   {Napkin pattern}. See {Linen scroll}, under {Linen}. --
      {Napkin ring}, a ring of metal, ivory, or other material,
      used to inclose a table napkin.

Source : WordNet®

napkin
     n 1: to protect clothing; wipe mouth [syn: {table napkin}, {serviette}]
     2: garment consisting of a folded cloth drawn up between the
        legs and fastened at the waist; worn by infants to catch
        excrement [syn: {diaper}, {nappy}]