'handkerchief' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'handkerchief,' where 'hand' meant 'hand' and 'kerchief' meant 'covering for the head.'

'handkerchief' changed from the Old French word 'couvrechef' and eventually became the modern English word 'handkerchief.'

Initially, it meant 'a covering for the head,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a small cloth for personal use.'