Definition

Noun: A large piece of fabric, typically cloth, that is spread over a dining table, especially to protect the table's surface, to decorate it, or to provide a clean surface for dining.

Usage

The word "tablecloth" is used to refer to the specific covering for a dining table. It is a countable noun. - It is typically placed on a table before setting it with plates, cutlery, and glasses. - It is often removed for washing after a meal.

Examples

• Noun:
  • She spread a clean, white tablecloth for the dinner party.
  • The red checkered tablecloth gave the picnic a rustic feel.
  • Please be careful not to spill wine on the new linen tablecloth.

Advanced Usage

• "To change the tablecloth": To remove a used tablecloth and replace it with a clean one.
  • After the messy meal, it was necessary to change the tablecloth.
• "Under the tablecloth": Referring to the space or surface directly beneath the cloth.
  • He hid the birthday present under the tablecloth.

Variants and Related Words

• Table linen (n): A broader term that includes tablecloths, napkins, and placemats.
• Runner (n): A long, narrow piece of fabric placed down the center of a table, often used instead of or on top of a full tablecloth.
• Placemat (n): An individual mat set at each person's place at a table, often used instead of a tablecloth.

Synonyms

• Table cover: A less common, more literal synonym.
• Table spread: An occasional synonym emphasizing the action of spreading it out.

Idioms

Note: There are no common idioms that use the exact word "tablecloth." Idioms often use the simpler word "table" (e.g., "turn the tables").

Noun

1. a covering spread over a dining table