What is Handkerchief?
[[Image:Handkerchief.jpg|right|thumb|[[Linen]] handkerchief]] A '''handkerchief''' {{IPAc-en|ˈ|h|æ|ŋ|k|ər|tʃ|ɪ|f}}, also called a '''handkercher''' or '''hanky''', is a form of a [[kerchief]], usually made of thin [[Textile|fabric]] that can be carried in the [[pocket]] or [[Handbag|purse]]. It was invented for personal [[hygiene]] purposes such as wiping one's [[hand]]s or face, or blowing one's [[human nose|nose]]. A handkerchief is also sometimes used as a purely decorative accessory in a suit pocket. ==Modern usage== The material of a handkerchief can be symbolic of the [[social-economic class]] of the user. It is not only because some materials are more expensive, but because some materials are more absorbent and useful for those who use a handkerchief for more than style. Handkerchiefs can be made of [[cotton]], cotton-synthetic blend, [[synthetic fabric]], [[silk]], or [[linen]]. ==Origin== Before people used the word handkerchief, the word kerchief alone was common. This term came from two French words: couvrir, which means “to cover,” and chef, which means “head.” In the time of [[ancient Greece]] and Rome, handkerchiefs were often used the way they are today. But in the [[Middle Ages]], kerchiefs were usually used to cover the head. <gallery> File:StateLibQld 1 207213 A. G. Murray, 1901.jpg| A man pictured (1901) in a three-piece suit with pocket handkerchief showing Image:Grey and navy suit on mannequin.jpg|[[Suit (clothing)|Suit]]s with pocket handkerchief File:Men in Suits.jpg|Men in suits with pocket handkerchief File:Woman sneezing.jpg|A woman using a handkerchief for personal hygiene File:Mouchoir.JPG|A Mouchoir, a type of handkerchief </gallery> ==Other websites== {{commonscat-inline}} [[Category:Accessories]]