handkerchief

(hang’kér-chif), n. [ kerchief. This compound is fused by the ordinary pronunciation (like its second element kerchief) into one word, without regard to its original elements; hence the compound neck handkerchief (as well as neckerchief), a curious cumulation of terms for the neck, hand, and head.] 1. A square piece of cloth, usually linen or silk, carried about the person for the purpose of wiping the face or nose. Silk handkerchiefs embroidered and fringed, or laced with gold, are mentioned as early as the reign of Queen Elizabeth, and the modern lace handkerchief has often but a very small center-piece of solid or plain material. From his body were brought unto the sick handkerchiefs or aprons, and the diseases departed from them. Acts xix. 12. And away he went, the King following him to a Riuer. ouer which Dauid, stretching his hand-kerchiefe, pa ouer, Purchas, Pilgrimage, p. 159. He did complain his head did ake; Her handkerchief she then took out, And tied the same his head about. The Suffolk Miracle (Child’s Ballads, I. 220), 2. A neckeloth; a neckerchief. [Colloq.]