HANKY Meaning and
Definition
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A hanky, short for handkerchief, refers to a small, square or rectangular piece of fabric used for personal hygiene or as a fashion accessory. Typically made from lightweight materials such as cotton or linen, a hanky's size usually ranges from about 8 to 15 inches, with variations depending on regional customs or personal preferences.
Functionally, a hanky is utilized to wipe or blow one's nose, though it can also serve other purposes like drying hands or cleaning spectacles. Historically, handkerchiefs were commonly carried by individuals, particularly for their practicality and convenience. In modern times, they have become less prevalent due to the widespread availability of disposable tissues or wipes, but they remain popular among certain demographic groups or those who prefer a more traditional style.
Beyond their functional use, hankies have also found a place in fashion. People often incorporate handkerchiefs into their outfits as an accessory, either in a pocket, as a headband, or tied around the neck or wrist. They may feature various patterns, designs, or colors that reflect personal style or cultural trends.
Overall, a hanky is a versatile fabric item employed for practical hygiene purposes, and it can also serve as a decorative element in fashion, adding a touch of uniqueness or elegance to an individual's attire.
Top Common Misspellings for HANKY *
* 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 HANKY
Etymology of HANKY
The word "hanky" is actually a shortened form of "handkerchief".
The term "handkerchief" originated from the combination of two words: "hand" and "kerchief". "Hand" refers to the body part we use for various activities, and "kerchief" comes from the Old French word "couvrechef", which means "cover head". In the early days, a kerchief was primarily used to cover the head, but over time, its use evolved to include covering the face, wiping sweat, and other purposes.
The word "handkerchief" itself first appeared in the English language in the 15th century, with "hand" indicating its association with the hand, and "kerchief" referring to its function as a cloth used for various purposes. Eventually, this long compound word was shortened to "hanky" for ease of use and colloquial convenience.
Idioms with the word HANKY
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hanky-panky
The idiom "hanky-panky" refers to secretive, suspicious, or improper behavior, typically involving deceit or dishonesty, especially in romantic or sexual situations. It often implies an illicit or inappropriate action that goes against accepted social norms or moral standards.
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hanky
The term "hanky" can refer to a handkerchief, which is a small piece of fabric used for wiping or blowing one's nose. Figuratively, it can also refer to something that is considered old-fashioned or outdated.
Similar spelling words for HANKY
- handy,
- haunch,
- hanker,
- haying,
- hunk,
- hank,
- Hannukah,
- hang,
- hankey,
- hanke,
- HAINS,
- honk,
- Haynes,
- haines,
- lanky,
- hankie,
- hannahs,
- hanks.
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