noun

scarf

SKARF/skɑːrf/

A long piece of fabric worn around the neck or head.

His scarf hangs loosely around his neck over his coat.

A close waist-up view of a man wearing a long woven scarf loosely wrapped around his neck, with both fringed ends hanging visibly over his plain coat.

Etymology

Scarf probably comes from escarpe, “sash, sling.” Its earlier English meaning was a band worn across the body or shoulders; the familiar neck covering is a later use of that wearable strip.

In context

The Drew Barrymore Show2:48

You asked the wardrobe lady if you could have a scarf for ET's neck, 'cause he was gonna get cold. So you wrapped the scarf around his neck.

E.T. Cast Reunion: Steven Spielberg Helped Bring out the Best in Them | The Drew Barrymore Show

More examples

She tied a silk scarf over her hair.
I tucked my wool scarf inside my jacket against the cold.
Fans raised their team scarves when the players entered.

Forms

scarf · scarves · scarfs

Similar words

kerchief: Usually square rather than a long strip of fabric.
shawl: Larger and usually draped over the shoulders.
stole: Typically rests across the shoulders, often with formal clothing.