Synonyms of handkerchief

handkerchief

noun

ˈhaŋ-kər-chəf 

1

as in madras

a scarf worn on the head

tied a handkerchief around her head and set about cleaning out the dust-covered attic

Synonyms & Similar Words

• madras
• bandanna
• kerchief
• mantilla
• babushka
• shawl
• do-rag
• hankie

2

as in towel

a small, often square piece of material that is used for personal hygiene purposes

usually dries her hands on her handkerchief when there are no towels available

Synonyms & Similar Words

• towel
• napkin
• kerchief
• hankie
• tissue
• serviette
• bandanna

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of handkerchief

The day after the ceremony, photos circulated online of an ivory handkerchief embroidered with lace that was handed out to the wedding guests. — Jack Dunn, Variety, 4 July 2026

Lopez wore three custom Ralph Lauren gowns – one a revamp of the designer's turtleneck column dress made with 1,000 handkerchiefs. — Taijuan Moorman, USA Today, 3 July 2026

The plot turns on the mystery of a handkerchief that Othello gives to Desdemona. — David Frum, The Atlantic, 17 June 2026

It should not be embroidered on such articles as cushions or handkerchiefs and the like, printed or otherwise impressed on paper napkins or boxes or anything that is designed for temporary use and discarded. — Darleene Powells, Boston Herald, 10 June 2026