In Québec French, the term débarbouillette refers to a small square towel made of sponge-like material, commonly used for washing. This word is derived from the verb débarbouiller, which means to wash one’s face or to clean up. In English, the closest translation for débarbouillette would be washcloth or face towel.
Obviously, while débarbouillette is primarily used in French Canada, the concept of a small towel for washing is also known in France, although the term itself is not commonly used there. Instead, the French might refer to a similar item as a carré de tissu-éponge.
The term débarbouillette first appeared in the late 19th century, with its recorded use dating back to around 1908. It is a regional term specific to Canadian French. Ancient similar forms of the word in international French are débarbouilloir and débarbouilloire (Dictionnaire de la langue française, 1863-1873, Émile Littré).
Examples of débarbouillette in context
- Elle alla s’étendre sur le lit après avoir mis sur son front une débarbouillette glacée.
- She lay down on the bed after placing a cold washcloth on her forehead.
- J’ai besoin d’une débarbouillette pour me laver le visage après ma course.
- I need a washcloth to clean my face after my run.