1 British : soft paper that is used for cleaning, wiping up liquid, etc. : paper towel.
2 : a usually flat-weave, lint-free towel for use in a kitchen, as for drying washed dishes.
Kitchen towels are generally tougher than your average bath towel, for instance. They are capable of absorbing, but they are also used to wipe up spills, clean off cutting boards, dry dishes, dry hands, and even hold hold hot plates and dishes.