G’day mate! When it comes to what Australians call napkins, there are a few quick answers we can provide upfront. Generally speaking, Australians refer to napkins as either ‘serviettes’ or ‘table napkins’. The term ‘serviette’ tends to be more common, especially in casual dining situations. Now let’s dig into the details…
The Origins of “Serviette”
The word “serviette” has French origins, tracing back to the French word “serviette” which also means napkin. During the 18th and 19th centuries, French culture and language had a major influence in Europe, including in Britain. As a British colony and part of the British Commonwealth, Australia naturally adopted some British terms and spellings, including “serviette” for napkin.
So while Americans and Canadians typically say “napkin”, Australians and Brits often say “serviette” instead. It’s simply a variation in regional vocabulary, not unlike how Americans say “elevator” while Brits say “lift”.
When are Serviettes Used?
Serviettes are used in all the same situations that napkins would be used in other English-speaking countries. You’ll find serviettes on dinner tables, in restaurants, at barbeques, at cafes, at picnics, or anywhere else food is served. They are an essential item used for wiping fingers and mouths while dining.
In casual Aussie dining, like grabbing fish and chips from a takeaway shop, cheap paper serviettes may be provided. In formal restaurant settings, the serviettes are likely to be classier cloth napkins, sometimes even linen or fine cotton.
Other Australian Terms for Napkins
While “serviette” is by far the most common Australian term, here are a few other napkin-related terms you may hear:
- Table napkin – Fancier or more formal term, used in high-end restaurants.
- Tissue – Cheap disposable paper napkins may be referred to simply as “tissues”.
- Napkin – Some Aussies are influenced by American media/culture and use “napkin” at times.
- Doily – A lace or paper decoration placed under cakes, cookies, or hors d’oeuvres.
Differences Between Australian and American Serviette Usage
While Australians use serviettes in much the same way Americans use napkins, there are some subtle cultural differences:
| Australian Serviette Usage | American Napkin Usage |
|---|---|
| Seen as more of a practical eating accessory. | Sometimes seen as a decorative table accent. |
| Often cheap paper serviettes even in restaurants. | Cloth napkins more common, especially in restaurants. |
| May be reused if not too dirty. | Typically used only once then placed on plate to be washed. |
| Folded casually. | Often folded neatly and placed in lap. |
As you can see, Australians have a more laidback, no-fuss attitude towards serviettes. Fancy folding isn’t common – the priority is wiping up sauce and crumbs!
Serviette Etiquette and Manners
Despite the casual Aussie attitude, there is some basic serviette etiquette to keep in mind:
- Place the serviette in your lap soon after sitting down.
- Use it to dab your mouth frequently while eating.
- If leaving the table, place it neatly on your chair.
- Don’t use it to blow your nose or clean messy kids!
- Place it on the table next to your plate when finished eating.
When in doubt, follow your host’s lead on fancier folding and placement. And don’t worry about minor spills and stains – most Aussies aren’t fussed about serviette perfection!
Serviette vs Napkin Conclusions
To summarize the key facts:
- “Serviette” is the Australian term while “napkin” is the North American term.
- Australians use serviettes casually while Americans may see fancier napkins as dining decor.
- Folding etiquette is relaxed in Australia but still follows basic manners.
- Other related terms like “table napkin” or “tissue” may be used at times.
So next time you’re dining Down Under or hear an Aussie say “serviette”, you’ll know they simply mean a good old napkin! Either term works fine, but adopting local lingo is always a nice way to fit in with Australian culture.