Answer (1 of 5): I’ve never been convinced by the supposed derivations of this expression. I’d speculate that it has origins in the use of handkerchiefs for sending messages. (Rather in the manner that ladies used fans.) A whole hidden ‘language’ existed for flirtation via handkerchief. (A few ex
Historical Treasure: More to a handkerchief than meets the eye, Features
Hanky Panky (2023) - Projected Figures
Where did the term “pansy” (as in “stop being such a pansy!”) come
Where did the term “pansy” (as in “stop being such a pansy!”) come
What is a more commonly used word in the USA for a 'handkerchief
Hanky Panky: Eddie Munson and Flagging in Stranger Things 4
The Complete Handkerchief History - HankyBook
How did a handkerchief (hanky) become the meaning of hanky-panky
Why does the word 'handkerchief' have such an unusual spelling
