handkerchief

American  

[hang-ker-chif, -cheef] / ˈhæŋ kər tʃɪf, -ˌtʃif /

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.

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handkerchief British  

/ 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

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Etymology

Origin of handkerchief

First recorded in 1520–30; hand + kerchief

Example Sentences

She pulled out her compass, a comb, a mirror—and a handkerchief.

From Literature

I ran through half a dozen handkerchiefs over the course of the proceedings.

From Los Angeles Times

Most years at Christmas, we were lucky enough to get an orange, a peppermint stick, and a new pair of socks or a handkerchief embroidered with Mamas fine stitching—more than most.

From Literature

I pulled out a handkerchief to wipe my brow, and tried to slow my panting, savoring the cool that was blowing in with the rain.

From Literature

Dishes in the sink, yellowed newspapers stacked waist high, and a soiled handkerchief next to a sagging armchair.

From Literature

Related Words

• bandana
• scarf