serviette etymology

Etymology

The word "serviette" is derived from the French word "serviette," which in turn comes from the Latin word "servus," meaning "slave" or "servant."

Meaning

A serviette is a piece of fabric or paper used to wipe one's hands or face, especially at a meal. It is a more formal term for a "napkin."

Origin

The use of serviettes can be traced back to ancient times, when large pieces of fabric were used to keep slaves and servants clean while attending to their masters. Gradually, the use of serviettes became more widespread, and they became a common feature of dining tables in Europe by the Middle Ages.

Over time, serviettes became more elaborate, and were often adorned with lace, embroidery, or other embellishments. They were also used to convey messages and signals during social events. For example, a serviette placed on the lap indicated that a guest was ready to be served, while a serviette placed on the table indicated that they were finished.

In the modern era, serviettes are still widely used, although their use is more formal than in the past. They are most often seen at weddings, banquets, and other special occasions. They are also available in a wide variety of materials, including cotton, linen, paper, and even plastic.

serviette relate terms

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