Definition

1. Noun:
   • A handkerchief that is carried in a pocket: A small, usually square piece of cloth, intended for personal hygiene purposes such as wiping one's nose or hands, and designed to be conveniently carried in a pocket.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • He pulled out a clean pocket-handkerchief to wipe his glasses.
  • In the past, a monogrammed pocket-handkerchief was a common gentleman's accessory.

Advanced Usage

• The term is often used to distinguish a personal handkerchief from other types, such as a decorative handkerchief or a larger cloth. It emphasizes the item's functional and portable nature.
  • The detective found a crucial clue: a pocket-handkerchief left at the scene.

Variants and Related Words

• Handkerchief (n): The more common, general term for the item. "Pocket-handkerchief" is a specific compound form of this word.
• Kerchief (n): An archaic or poetic term for a piece of cloth worn on the head or around the neck, related etymologically.

Synonyms

• Handkerchief: The direct and most common synonym.
• Hanky (informal): A casual, shortened form of "handkerchief."

Related Phrases

• To pocket one's handkerchief: To put one's handkerchief away into a pocket. This is a descriptive phrase using the verb "to pocket."
  • After using it, he quietly pocketed his handkerchief.

Related Idioms

• While there are no common idioms using the exact term "pocket-handkerchief," the simpler "handkerchief" appears in some expressions.
  • To throw the handkerchief (to someone): An old-fashioned phrase meaning to show favor or choose someone, often in a romantic context.

Noun

1. a handkerchief that is carried in a pocket