handkerchief

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

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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

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of handkerchief Your man scent will usually keep small predator animals away; to be doubly sure, tie some personal article like a handkerchief to the meat. Maurice H. Decker, Outdoor Life, 17 Sep. 2025 For centuries, islanders lined fishing docks below the castle, waving handkerchiefs at ships setting sail for America. Lauren Frayer, NPR, 14 Sep. 2025 The older Burnett would put on a top hat, a black suit, a red tie and a red handkerchief. Jake Sheridan, Chicago Tribune, 5 Sep. 2025 The heat was now sweltering, my handkerchief sodden with use. Literary Hub, 3 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for handkerchief
Recent Examples of Synonyms for handkerchief
Noun
  • Standalone cotton twill, madras, linen, rayon and poplin are light, airy and breathable—and therefore should be avoided at all costs.
    Barry Samaha, Robb Report, 5 Jan. 2023
  • Robbie Kendall was waiting on the steps of the tomb in madras shorts and a light blue polo shirt, his blond hair worn just long enough to suggest surfer without actually looking disreputable.
    Nick Romano, EW.com, 12 Dec. 2022
Noun
  • Geirþrúður has wrapped a large towel around herself but her shoulders are still bare and her December-dark hair is wet and wild and possibly blacker than it’s ever been.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 10 Nov. 2025
  • His property keeps walkie-talkies, bathtubs, safety rails, baby wipes, diaper bins, and soft towels available.
    Iona Brannon, Travel + Leisure, 10 Nov. 2025
Noun
  • Madden brought an '80s rocker vibe to show, wearing a skull on his belt and a bandana on his head.
    Raechal Shewfelt, Entertainment Weekly, 5 Nov. 2025
  • Bowls, beds and bandanas are placed in every pet-friendly room, and dogs are welcome on all outdoor dining terraces.
    Beth Landman, HollywoodReporter, 30 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • Enhance the woodland theme with toadstool napkin ties by covering wood mushrooms in crepe paper.
    Sarah Martens, Better Homes & Gardens, 5 Nov. 2025
  • Investigators also noted a paper dinner napkin found near his body and that Antonio used dentures that were missing, per court documents.
    Christina Coulter, PEOPLE, 30 Oct. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Handkerchief.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/handkerchief. Accessed 11 Nov. 2025.

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