handkerchiefs

variants also handkerchieves
plural of handkerchief
1
as in madrases
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 towels
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 handkerchiefs The fans responded by waving their white handkerchiefs, the ultimate sign of disapproval. Jordan Campbell, New York Times, 10 Oct. 2025 For centuries, islanders lined fishing docks below the castle, waving handkerchiefs at ships setting sail for America. Lauren Frayer, NPR, 14 Sep. 2025 By 1843, veterans regularly received navy blue jackets, pairs of cotton and linen trousers, flannel drawers and shirts, socks, pairs of shoes, white and checked cotton shirts, silk and cotton handkerchiefs, and hats. Made By History, TIME, 20 Mar. 2025 Yardley wasted no time in searching the purse but found nothing except $15, a key and two or three handkerchiefs. Peter Zablocki, Smithsonian Magazine, 4 Feb. 2025 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
Recent Examples of Synonyms for handkerchiefs
Noun
  • Best Bedding and Bath Deals This weekend, shoppers will find hundreds of deals in the bed-and-bath categories, including duvet covers, reversible quilts, blackout curtains, bath mats, towels, and so much more.
    Paige Bennett, Better Homes & Gardens, 6 Nov. 2025
  • The towels started twirling again.
    D’Joumbarey Moreau, Miami Herald, 5 Nov. 2025
Noun
  • 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
  • The photos were printed out and framed for the couple and gifted alongside a print of the dogs’ paws, dog toys, custom collars, bandanas and an embroidery of the dogs' faces.
    Kimberlee Speakman, PEOPLE, 28 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • At the funeral for Pope Francis in April, Jill Biden, Queen Letizia of Spain, Princess Charlene of Monaco and Queen Rania of Jordan were among the high-profile royals and global dignitaries who wore mantillas with their mourning attire.
    Julia Teti, Footwear News, 23 Oct. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Handkerchiefs.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/handkerchiefs. Accessed 8 Nov. 2025.

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