Liberal Dictionary English Dictionary
noun
- 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.
- a neckerchief or kerchief.
noun
- a small square of soft absorbent material, such as linen, silk, or soft paper, carried and used to wipe the nose, etc
1520s, from hand + kerchief “cloth for covering the head.” Thus it is a one-word contradiction in terms. By-form handkercher was in use 16c.-19c. A dropped handkerchief as a token of flirtation or courtship is attested by mid-18c.