towelette etymology

Etymology, Meaning, and Origin of "Towelette"

Etymology

The word "towel" comes from the Old French word "touaille," which in turn comes from the Latin word "tuella," meaning "a cloth for wiping." The suffix "-ette" is a diminutive, indicating a small version of something. Therefore, "towelette" literally means "a small towel."

Meaning

A towelette is a small, disposable, moistened wipe that is used for cleaning or disinfecting surfaces, hands, or other objects. Towelettes are typically made of paper or cloth and are often pre-saturated with a cleaning solution or disinfectant.

Origin

Towelettes were first developed in the early 1900s by American inventor Charles B. Craig. Craig was a pharmacist who was looking for a way to make it easier for people to clean their hands after handling chemicals. He came up with the idea of creating a small, moistened wipe that could be easily carried in a pocket or purse.

Craig's invention was initially marketed to pharmacists and dentists, but it soon became popular with consumers as well. Today, towelettes are commonly used in a variety of settings, including healthcare facilities, restaurants, offices, and homes.

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