ˈhaŋkə(r)chə]f, ˈhaiŋ-, -(ˌ)chi]f, -ˌchē]f noun
( plural handkerchiefs also handkerchieves ]fs, ]vz; many whose pl is -ēvz have ə or i as a last-syllable vowel in the sing \)
Etymology: hand + kerchief
1. : a piece of cloth usually square and often printed, edged, or embroidered that is used for various usually personal purposes (as the wiping of the nose or eyes) or as a costume accessory
2. : kerchief 1