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

Some were seen drying their eyes with handkerchiefs in a Reuters live video of the scene. — Billy Stockwell, CNN Money, 5 July 2026

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