Handkerchief vs. Kerchief — What's the Difference?

A handkerchief (; also called a hankie or, historically, a handkercher) is a form of a kerchief or bandanna, typically a hemmed square of thin fabric which can be carried in the pocket or handbag, and which is intended for personal hygiene purposes such as wiping one's hands or face, or blowing one's nose. A handkerchief is also sometimes used as a purely decorative accessory in a suit pocket; it is then called a pocket square.

A kerchief (from the Old French couvrechief, "cover head"), also known as a bandana or bandanna, is a triangular or square piece of cloth tied around the head, face or neck for protective or decorative purposes. The popularity of head kerchiefs may vary by culture or religion, and may vary among Orthodox Jewish and Christian, Catholic, Amish, and Muslim people.

A square of cotton or other finely woven material intended for wiping one's nose.

A piece of fabric used to cover the head.

A small square of cloth used especially for wiping the nose or mouth.

A square scarf, often worn as a head covering.

A large piece of cloth worn as a decorative article; a scarf.

A handkerchief.

A piece of cloth, usually square and often fine and elegant, carried for wiping the face, eyes, nose or hands.

(dated) A piece of cloth used to cover the head; a bandana.

A piece of cloth shaped like a handkerchief to be worn about the neck; a neckerchief or neckcloth.

To cover with a kerchief.

A piece of cloth, usually square and often fine and elegant, carried for wiping the face or hands.

A square of fine linen worn by women as a covering for the head; hence, anything similar in form or material, worn for ornament on other parts of the person; - mostly used in compounds; as, neckerchief; breastkerchief; and later, handkerchief.

A piece of cloth shaped like a handkerchief to be worn about the neck; a neckerchief; a neckcloth.

A lady who wears a kerchief.

A square piece of cloth used for wiping the eyes or nose or as a costume accessory

A square scarf that is folded into a triangle and worn over the head or about the neck