Paper Towel: Definition, Uses, and Examples

Meaning 1：paper towel (Paper Towel)

Paper Towel 🔊

/ˈpeɪpər ˈtaʊəl/

A thick, disposable paper used in kitchens for cleaning spills and drying hands.

paper towel 🔊

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/ˈpeɪpər ˈtaʊəl/

A thick, absorbent sheet of paper designed for one-time use in wiping spills, drying hands, or cleaning surfaces, especially in kitchens.

📁 Category：Objects & Materials 🔖 Level：beginner

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

Paper from Latin 'papyrus'; Towel from Old French 'toaille' meaning cloth for washing.

💡 Mnemonic

Think 'paper + towel' = a two-word combo that sticks to spills like glue.

📖 Example

I spilled some juice on the counter, so I reached for a paper towel to clean it up quickly. 🔊 I spilled some juice on the counter, so I reached for a paper towel to clean it up quickly.

🔗 Collocations

paper towel roll – A cylindrical roll of connected paper towel sheets.

paper towel dispenser – A device that holds and releases paper towels one at a time.

use a paper towel – To take and apply a sheet of paper towel for cleaning or drying.

🔄 Synonyms

kitchen towel (n.) – A cloth or paper towel used specifically in kitchens, often reusable.

disposable towel (n.) – A towel meant to be thrown away after one use, made of paper or non-woven material.

paper napkin (n.) – A smaller, often thinner paper sheet used for wiping hands or mouth during meals.

🚫 Antonyms

cloth towel (n.) – A reusable towel made of fabric, such as cotton or linen.

sponge (n.) – A porous material used for absorbing liquids and cleaning, reusable.

rag (n.) – A piece of old cloth used for cleaning, typically reused multiple times.

📖 Cultural Story

Invented in 1907 by the Scott Paper Company, paper towels were first marketed for kitchen use. They became a household staple for quick, disposable cleaning.