doily

or doy·ley

[ doi-lee ]

noun

, plural doi·lies.

1. any small, ornamental mat, as of embroidery or lace.
2. Archaic. a small napkin, as one used during a dessert course.

doily

/ ˈdɔɪlɪ /

noun

1. a decorative mat of lace or lacelike paper, etc, laid on or under plates

Word History and Origins

Origin of doily¹

First recorded in 1670–80; named after a London draper of the late 17th century

Word History and Origins

Origin of doily¹

C18: named after Doily, a London draper

Example Sentences

And seven petticoats beneath, so she seemed to skim just above the pile of the carpet, like a floating doily.

From Literature

Rachel Scott, 40, the New York-based designer behind the women’s wear line Diotima, was also inspired by the lace doilies she saw growing up.

From New York Times

She filled the place with antiques and doilies and Victorian-era wedding photos — some of which she bought on EBay — with unsmiling brides and grooms.

From Los Angeles Times

The three Witchlings and the two older witches settled into cushiony floral chairs around a table covered with an old-fashioned doily tablecloth.

From Literature

Valeria visits her mother, who sits in judgmental silence, crocheting doilies and coasters and place mats.

From Washington Post

Related Words

• cloth
• towel