nose-wiper

A child uses a nose-wiper after sneezing.

Definition

1. Noun (slang):
   • A "nose-wiper" is a colloquial term for a handkerchief or tissue used to wipe the nose.
   • It refers specifically to a cloth or paper item intended for cleaning nasal discharge.

Usage Examples

• (A handkerchief for wiping his nose.)
• (A tissue or cloth for cleaning the nose.)
• (A humorous or informal term.)

Advanced Usage

• "to use a nose-wiper": to employ a handkerchief or tissue for nasal hygiene.
  • She discreetly used a nose-wiper during the cold weather. (She wiped her nose with a handkerchief.)
• "a dirty nose-wiper": a used or soiled handkerchief.
  • Don't lend him your handkerchief; it will become a dirty nose-wiper. (It will be stained with mucus.)

Variants and Related Words

• Nose (n): the part of the face used for breathing and smelling.
  • He has a runny nose. (His nose is producing mucus.)
• Wiper (n): something used for wiping or cleaning.
  • The windshield wiper cleans the car window. (A device for wiping.)
• Handkerchief (n): a square piece of cloth used for wiping the nose or face.
  • She embroidered her initials on the handkerchief. (A decorative cloth.)

Synonyms

• Handkerchief: a cloth for wiping the nose or face.
• Tissue: a soft paper sheet used for the same purpose.
• Snot-rag (slang, vulgar): a very informal term for a handkerchief.

Related Idioms

• "to blow one's nose": to clear the nose by blowing air through it into a handkerchief or tissue.
  • He blew his nose loudly with his nose-wiper. (He cleared his nose using his handkerchief.)
• "to wipe one's nose": to clean the nose with a cloth or tissue.
  • She wiped her nose with a nose-wiper after crying. (She cleaned her nose.)

Etymology

• The term "nose-wiper" is formed by combining "nose" (the body part) and "wiper" (something that wipes), with the slang usage dating back to at least the 19th century in informal English. It is now considered archaic or humorous.