What does hanky mean?
A hanky is a small handkerchief, usually square, that people use to wipe their nose, dab their eyes, or clean their face. It may be made from cloth, though the familiar paper hanky is especially associated with colds, allergies, travel, and other minor inconveniences. The word is informal and is particularly common in North American English, while the variant “hankie” is widely understood as well. In ordinary conversation, “hanky” can evoke images of a practical pocket square, a tissue packet, or a tear-stained cloth, giving it a more personal and nostalgic tone than the more formal “handkerchief.” It is a useful word because it captures both the function and the everyday familiarity of a small personal cloth, while the term also extends naturally to disposable paper versions of that object.
nounA small square of cloth, often made of cotton or paper, used for wiping the nose or eyes. In informal use, “hanky” can also refer to a handkerchief used to dab away tears.
- A small square of cloth, often made of cotton or paper, used for wiping the nose or eyes.
"She passed him a tissue, but he reached for the paper hanky in his pocket."
"He kept a paper hanky in his jacket pocket for emergencies."
"She wiped her eyes with a hanky and tried to compose herself."
The standard plural adds -ies to the word ending in -y.
"She put a few hankies in her handbag."
The humble paper hanky became a cultural symbol of colds, tears, and dramatic sniffing.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does hanky come from?
Hanky is a shortened form of “hankie,” which is itself a diminutive of “handkerchief.” The older word “handkerchief” combines “hand” and “kerchief,” with “kerchief” ultimately referring to a cloth or covering. The shortening reflects the word’s long use in informal speech, where compactness and ease are preferred over the full formal expression.
Related word forms
How hanky is actually used
Hanky is informal and is especially common in North American English. It may sound practical, familiar, or mildly old-fashioned, while “hankie” is an equally common variant spelling.
Easily confused with hanky
“Hankie” is an alternative spelling of “hanky,” with the same meaning and pronunciation.