handkerchief

A handkerchief is a small square of cloth carried in a pocket or purse and used for personal hygiene and cleaning tasks, such as wiping the nose, hands, or face, or absorbing sweat. It is typically made from cotton, linen, or silk and is designed to be washable and reusable.

Etymology and history: The term handkerchief combines “hand” with “kerchief,” with kerchief deriving from the Old French couvre-chef meaning head covering. Handkerchiefs have been used in various cultures for centuries, with woven linen and cotton versions becoming common in Europe during the 18th and 19th centuries. They were widely carried as practical items and, in some periods, as a social signal of status or refinement.

Design and care: Handkerchiefs come in a range of sizes and finishes from plain to embroidered. They are typically laundered after use; cotton and linen handkerchiefs can be machine washed and air dried or ironed while damp to optimize appearance. Silk variants require more delicate care. Reusability is a key feature that distinguishes handkerchiefs from disposable tissues.

Uses and cultural notes: In Western etiquette, a handkerchief may be carried in a hip or breast pocket, and plain fabrics or color-coordinated designs can function as a pocket square in more formal dress. In addition to practical use, decorative handkerchiefs are sometimes worn as fashion accessories. A related cultural reference is the handkerchief code used in some subcultures to indicate preferences via colored handkerchiefs worn in a pocket.