Hanky

A small, usually square, piece of cloth, often carried in a pocket or purse, used for wiping the nose, eyes, or face, especially to absorb perspiration or tears. Historically, hankies were also used as a fashion accessory or a signifier of social status. Modern hankies are often made of cotton, linen, or silk, and can be plain, patterned, or embroidered. Their primary function remains personal hygiene and convenience, though some collectors view them as historical artifacts. They are a practical and portable item with a long history of use.

Hanky meaning with examples

• She delicately dabbed her eyes with a crisp, white hanky as she watched the wedding ceremony. The embroidered floral design added a touch of elegance to her otherwise simple attire. Her grandmother's hanky, it was a cherished heirloom passed down through generations. It served both a practical purpose and a sentimental one. She treasured this tangible link to the past.
• During the stressful presentation, he frequently reached into his pocket for his hanky. The silk felt smooth and cool against his perspiring forehead as he wiped away the nervous sweat. The pocket square served as a discrete means of regaining his composure, his lifeline. He dabbed at his face throughout his entire speech. It prevented any embarrassment from his excessive nervousness.
• The little boy needed a hanky to wipe his runny nose after the sudden onset of a cold. His mother pulled a colorful, cartoon-character-patterned one from her bag. The hanky quickly came to the rescue, preventing snot from running down his face. Although disposable tissues were readily available, he preferred the familiar, comforting feel of the hanky.
• She used a clean hanky to hold the spilled ink on the old parchment, preventing any further spreading. It was a quick solution, she needed a soft material to soak up the fluid. The hanky’s absorbent fibers quickly soaked up the ink, and the delicate document was saved. Without the help of her hanky, the damage would have been irreversible.