Serviette/ˌsɜːrviˈet/ Definition 1 of 1Pro Tip 1/3Cultural Preference Preferred in some English-speaking countries; others use 'napkin'. Know the regional usage. Could you please pass me a serviette? Pro Tip 2/3Material Matters Can refer to both cloth and paper, but mention the type if context doesn't make it clear. At the barbecue, we used paper serviettes. Pro Tip 3/3Dining Etiquette Associated with dining; used for manners at meals, not for cleaning spills in general. Place the serviette on your lap before eating.