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

Other Word Forms

• kerchiefed adjective
• kerchieft 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

So did the chairman, from behind his bandit’s kerchief.

Read more on Literature

As a gesture of true camaraderie, they grin and untie their own blue pañuelos and tie these kerchiefs around our necks.

Read more on Salon

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

Read more on Seattle Times

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

Read more on 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.

Read more on Washington Times