Trousers Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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trousers
[หtraสzษrz ]
Definition
wearable clothing item
Trousers are an item of clothing that covers the lower part of the body, typically covering both legs separately (rather than together as in a skirt). They come in various styles such as jeans, slacks, or chinos.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| trousers |
Typically used in British English to describe an outer garment covering the lower half of the body from the waist to the ankles, often associated with formal, business, or casual attire.
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| pants |
Commonly used in American English to refer to any garment covering the body from the waist to the ankles. It can denote anything from jeans to formal trousers.
|
| slacks |
Refers specifically to a type of semi-formal or formal trousers, often worn in business or dressy-casual settings. The term has a more professional or elegant connotation.
|
| bottoms |
A more informal and general term that can refer to any type of lower body clothing, including pants, jeans, leggings, and sweatpants. It's often used in casual or everyday conversation.
|
Examples of usage
- He wore a pair of black trousers to the job interview.
- She prefers wearing trousers rather than skirts.
- The fashion trend this season is high-waisted trousers.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The word 'trousers' comes from the Middle French 'trousses' which means 'drawers', first appearing in English in the 17th century.
- Originally, trousers were cut and sewn in a way that made them look more like breeches, which were popular in earlier centuries.
- Throughout history, men primarily wore trousers while women often wore skirts until the late 19th and 20th centuries, when trousers became more common in women's fashion.
Fashion Evolution
- In the 1950s, trousers began to be adapted for casual wear, leading to the rise of styles like jeans and chinos.
- The bell-bottom trend of the 1960s and 1970s showcased a wide flare at the bottom of trousers, often associated with the counterculture movement.
- Today, trousers come in various styles such as skinny, straight-leg, and wide-leg, catering to diverse fashion preferences.
Cultural Significance
- In many cultures, trousers are considered a standard or formal piece of clothing, reflecting societal norms about appearance and professionalism.
- Some cultures have traditional trousers, like the 'shalwar' in South Asia or 'harem pants' in the Middle East, each with unique historical significance.
- Trousers were once a symbol of rebellion for womenโs liberation, where wearing them was seen as a challenge to traditional gender roles.
Global Variances
- Different regions have unique interpretations of trousers, such as 'culottes' which are wide, skirt-like pants popular among women.
- In Japan, 'hakama' are traditional trousers worn over kimono, representing a blend of cultural identity and style.
- The term 'pants' is commonly used in North America, while 'trousers' is more frequently used in British English, showcasing linguistic variances within the same concept.
Modern Usage
- With the rise of athleisure, many people now wear trousers made from stretchy materials, perfect for both workouts and casual outings.
- Sustainable fashion has influenced trouser production, with many brands moving towards eco-friendly materials and ethical manufacturing practices.
- The design of trousers has even evolved with technology, including features like moisture-wicking fabric and built-in pockets for modern conveniences.
Origin of 'trousers'
The word 'trousers' originated in the early 17th century, derived from the Scottish Gaelic word 'triubhas' meaning 'close-fitting shorts'. Initially, trousers were considered a form of men's clothing, but over time they became a staple in both men's and women's wardrobes.