Small pieces of fabric, usually square, used for wiping the face or nose or as a decorative accessory.
From 'hand' and 'kerchief' (from Old French 'couvrechef'—cover-head). Originally a head covering, then became a smaller cloth carried in pockets.
Handkerchiefs used to be fashionable accessories—wealthy people had ornate, decorative ones made of silk or linen. In Victorian times, dropping a handkerchief was actually a way to flirt with someone! Now we mostly use tissues instead.
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