A2noun2K

Towel

UK /["/ˈtaʊəl/"]/US /["/ˈtaʊəl/"]/

Definition

a piece of cloth or paper used for drying things, especially your body

In simple words: A piece of cloth used for drying things, especially after washing.

Examples

  • Help yourself to a clean towel.
  • a **hand/bath towel** *(= a small/large towel)*
  • a **beach towel** *(= a large towel used for lying on in the sun)*
  • I got out of the pool and wrapped my towel around me.
  • Pat the area dry with a clean towel.
  • We're not going to throw in the towel just because we lost one game.
  • His corner threw in the towel near the end of the tenth round.

Usage notes

Use 'towel' when referring to a cloth for drying. It's appropriate in most settings, like at home or the gym, but avoid using it in very formal contexts.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'towel' as 'towel dries you well'.

Collocations

  • clean
  • fresh
  • damp
  • drape
  • wrap
  • hang
  • rack
  • rail
  • dispenser

Synonyms

  • cloth
  • rag
  • napkin
  • sheet
  • piece of fabric

Antonyms

  • dryness

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'towels' as a singular noun.
  • Using 'towel' to mean 'cloth' without context.
  • Mispronouncing it as 'tow-el' instead of 'tao-l'.