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

And a handkerchief’s purpose, other than as a fashion statement, is to keep things tidy when blowing one’s nose.

From Salon

Others shake their heads, fold handkerchiefs to their faces and look away.

From BBC

A piece of card and a handkerchief was then placed between them.

From BBC

The large, angled handkerchief is a subtle formal echo of the drapery opening diagonally above Mariana’s head.

From Los Angeles Times

“We had the most matching socks and handkerchiefs — all the details.”

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• bandana
• scarf