A
handkerchief , also called a
handkercher or
hanky, is a form of a
kerchief, typically a hemmed square of thin
fabric that can be carried in the
pocket or
purse, 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.