handkerchief

[ hang-ker-chif, -cheef ]

noun

1. a small piece of linen, silk, or other fabric, usually square, and used especially for wiping one's nose, eyes, face, etc., or for decorative purposes.
2. a neckerchief or kerchief.

handkerchief

/ ˈhæŋkətʃɪf; -tʃiːf /

noun

1. a small square of soft absorbent material, such as linen, silk, or soft paper, carried and used to wipe the nose, etc

Word History and Origins

Origin of handkerchief¹

First recorded in 1520–30; hand + kerchief

Example Sentences

Her mother waved a white handkerchief as they walked, “because the planes were constantly flying overhead” and “so we’d be recognized as civilians.”

From Seattle Times

Grandma dabs her cheeks with a handkerchief.

From Literature

The Marquess of Tilbury’s doddering hand rose to his pocket handkerchief.

From Literature

He didn’t notice that his pocket handkerchief had a tail.

From Literature

Then I was thrust back with the handkerchief into his pocket, nose and whiskers first.

From Literature

Related Words

• bandana
• scarf