How Do You Spell HANDKERCHIEF?

Pronunciation: [hˈandkət͡ʃˌiːf] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "handkerchief" can be tricky due to its irregular phonetic representation. In IPA transcription, it is pronounced /ˈhændkərtʃɪf/. The "h" at the beginning is silent, and the "c" is pronounced as an "s" sound. The "ch" in the middle is pronounced as a "k" sound, and the "ie" makes a long "e" sound. The final "f" is pronounced softly, almost as if it were a "v". This word is a great example of why it is important to study phonetics in order to have a better understanding of pronunciation.

HANDKERCHIEF Meaning and Definition

1. A handkerchief is a small square or rectangular piece of fabric, typically made of cotton or linen, used primarily for wiping or dabbing the face, hands, or neck. It is designed to be easily carried in a pocket or a purse.

   Traditionally, handkerchiefs have been used for personal hygiene purposes, such as blowing the nose or wiping away perspiration. They offer a convenient means of keeping oneself clean or dry when away from home or lacking access to proper sanitation facilities.

   Handkerchiefs often feature decorative patterns, monograms, or embroidery, making them both functional and fashionable accessories. They can be made from various materials, but cotton and linen are most commonly used due to their softness, absorbency, and durability.

   Beyond their practical uses, handkerchiefs have also carried symbolic significance in different cultures and historical contexts. They have been used as tokens of affection, friendship, or remembrance, exchanged between loved ones or worn in clothing as a memento. Handkerchiefs have even been employed symbolically in various rituals, ceremonies, or superstitions to represent purification, luck, or protection.

   In modern times, the popularity of disposable tissues has somewhat diminished the widespread usage of handkerchiefs. However, they continue to be cherished by individuals appreciative of their eco-friendly and sustainable nature, nostalgic value, or personal style statement.

2. A piece of cloth, usually silk or linen, carried in the pocket or worn around the neck.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Top Common Misspellings for HANDKERCHIEF *

• hankerchief 74.4%
• handkercheif 3.2%
• handcherchief 2.4%
• hankerchif 1.6%
• handerchief 1.6%
• handkerchif 1.6%
• hankerchiff 1.6%

* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.

Other Common Misspellings for HANDKERCHIEF

• handkerchife
• handcerchif
• hankerchiefs
• hankerchef
• handherchief
• hancherchief
• hadkerchief
• handkerchef
• handkercief
• handkercheff
• handkerchives

Etymology of HANDKERCHIEF

The word "handkerchief" derives from the combination of two Middle English words: "hand" (meaning hand) and "kerchief" (meaning a cloth used to cover the head).

The term "kerchief" originates from the Old French word "covrir", meaning "to cover", and the Middle English word "kerchef", meaning "headcloth". Over time, "kerchief" evolved to refer to a small square of cloth used to cover one's head or tie around the neck.

The addition of "hand" to "kerchief" in the word "handkerchief" reflects the specific purpose of the cloth being used - to wipe or cover one's hands. This combination came into common use in the English language during the 16th century.

Plural form of HANDKERCHIEF is HANDKERCHIEFS