A piece of cloth or plastic fastened around the neck to protect clothes while eating, typically worn by babies or young children. Can also refer to the front part of an apron or overalls.
From Middle English 'bibben' meaning 'to drink,' related to Latin 'bibere' (to drink). Originally referred to drinking, then extended to the cloth that protects from spills while drinking or eating.
The connection between 'bib' and 'bibliography' might surprise you - both come from the Latin 'bibere' (to drink), as books were once thought to be 'drunk in' through reading! Adult bibs are making a comeback in fine dining to protect expensive clothing.
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