kerchief

[ kur-chif, -cheef ]

noun

1. a woman's square scarf worn as a covering for the head or sometimes the shoulders.
2. a handkerchief.

kerchief

/ ˈkɜːtʃɪf /

noun

1. a piece of cloth worn tied over the head or around the neck

Derived Forms

• ˈkerchiefed, adjective

Other Words From

• kerchiefed kerchieft adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of kerchief¹

1250–1300; Middle English kerchef, syncopated variant of keverchef < Old French cuevrechef literally, (it) covers (the) head. See cover, chief

Word History and Origins

Origin of kerchief¹

C13: from Old French cuevrechef, from covrir to cover + chef head; see chief

Example Sentences

Some 1,500 young Zapatistas donning uniforms — black balaclavas, green caps and red kerchiefs — stood in formation listening to speeches early Monday.

From Seattle Times

Some 1,500 young Zapatistas donning uniforms - black balaclavas, green caps and red kerchiefs - stood in formation listening to speeches early Monday.

From Washington Times

Warner does a masterful job restoring the screen-bursting gem giving the period costuming a new life with its collection of worn leather, finely buffed boots, 10-gallon hats, colorful kerchiefs, shiny belt buckles and bullet belts.

From Washington Times

Wearing colorful kerchiefs, blouses, skirts and aprons, the women sat on one side across from the men.

From New York Times

Strands of black hair peeked from under her kerchief.

From Literature