Merriam-Webster Logo
SINCE 1828
Menu
dictionary thesaurus

Thesaurus

handkerchief

noun

Synonyms and Antonyms of handkerchief

1 a scarf worn on the head
  • She tied a handkerchief around her head and set about cleaning out the dust-covered attic.
Synonyms of handkerchief

babushka, bandanna (or bandana), do-rag, kerchief, mantilla
Words Related to handkerchief

shawl

hankie (or hanky)
2 a small, often square piece of material that is used for personal hygiene purposes
  • Kim usually dries her hands on her handkerchief when there are no towels available.
Synonyms of handkerchief

hankie (or hanky), kerchief
Words Related to handkerchief

napkin, tissue, towel

bandanna (or bandana)

Learn More about handkerchief

  1. See words that rhyme with handkerchief Dictionary: Definition of handkerchief Spanish Central: Translation of handkerchief Nglish: Translation of handkerchief for Spanish speakers Britannica English: Translation of handkerchief for Arabic speakers

Seen and Heard

What made you want to look up handkerchief? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).

show hide

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

Words at Play

Ask the Editors

Word Games