Pants: meaning, definitions and examples

Common term used in American English to refer to outerwear that covers from the waist to the ankles. In British English, the same word refers to underwear.

• He put on his pants before leaving the house.
• She bought a new pair of pants from the store.

General term used to describe any clothing worn beneath outer clothes. Applies to all types of undergarments for both men and women.

• He folded his clean underwear and put it away.
• She bought a new set of underwear.

British English term for women's underwear. In American English, it can also refer to knee-length trousers worn by young boys or golfers.

• She needed to buy some new knickers.
• He wore knickers while playing golf.

Specific type of tight-fitting underwear that provides full coverage and support. Often used for men’s underwear.

• He prefers wearing briefs for their support during workouts.
• She bought a pack of briefs for her son.

A term used primarily in British English to mean 'rubbish' or 'nonsense'.

• That movie was absolute pants!

Used in formal and informal situations when pointing out faults or expressing disapproval. The tone can be neutral but often carries a slightly negative implication.

• The teacher criticized the student's essay for its lack of clarity

Typically used in more formal contexts to describe the act of making fun of someone or something in a way that shows a lack of respect. This term has a strong negative connotation.

• She was ridiculed by her peers for her unconventional fashion sense

Often used in informal situations to imitate or make fun of someone or something in a mean-spirited way. This word carries a negative connotation.

• They mocked his accent during the entire meeting