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 There are others who eat loudly, and still others who have yet to be introduced to the humble tissue or handkerchief. Judith Martin, The Mercury News, 21 Dec. 2024 Wedding Parades Particular mostly to Louisiana weddings, the second line parade is quite the celebratory tradition in which a brass band and parasol-wielding newlyweds lead their guests, who wave handkerchiefs or napkins, on a festive jaunt through the city (or around their reception venue). Kaitlyn Yarborough, Southern Living, 29 Nov. 2024 Wearing a handkerchief around his neck, Wren displays his cropped curls, smiling and showing his little teeth. Hannah Sacks, People.com, 4 Nov. 2024 In addition to acting and directing, Hanks also had a line of stylish handkerchiefs, but the business shut down in December 2022. John Russell, People.com, 6 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for handkerchief 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for handkerchief
Noun
  • Straight teeth and sandy hair, Izod T-shirts and madras skirts and boat shoes.
    Christian Livermore, Longreads, 11 Oct. 2022
  • 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
Noun
  • Cleaning and disinfecting the skin: Moist, warm towels may also be used to soften the skin.
    Maxine Lipner, Verywell Health, 3 Feb. 2025
  • Activities and Amenities The eco-lodge has an infinity pool perched at the edge of a cliff where staff will bring you a cocktail and towels on demand.
    Carrie Honaker, Travel + Leisure, 3 Feb. 2025
Noun
  • Genta designed the Nautilus on a napkin before allegedly proposing it to Piaget, who rejected it and have been regretting the decision ever since.
    Thomas Wojtowicz, Forbes, 23 Jan. 2025
  • These napkins, printed with the Galentine's Day Gang, come in a pack of 50.
    Nora Colomer, Fox News, 23 Jan. 2025
Noun
  • Cloth and surgical masks and bandannas allow too much air in and don’t filter out finer particles.
    Karen Garcia, Los Angeles Times, 17 Jan. 2025
  • At his home on Wednesday, Matsuura remained focused on his desperate task, dressed all in black with nothing but a black bandanna to filter the noxious air.
    James Rainey, Los Angeles Times, 8 Jan. 2025

Thesaurus Entries Near handkerchief

Cite this Entry

“Handkerchief.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/handkerchief. Accessed 12 Feb. 2025.

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