A square of fine linen worn by women as a covering for the head; hence, anything similar in form or material, worn for ornament on other parts of the person; -- mostly used in compounds; as, neckerchief; breastkerchief; and later, handkerchief. He might put on a hat, a muffler, and a kerchief, and so escape. Shak. Her black hair strained away To a scarlet kerchief caught beneath her chin. Mrs. Browning.
A lady who wears a kerchief. Dryden.
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