Trousers

Definition

Trousers are a type of garment covering the lower body from the waist to the ankles, with separate sections for each leg. Commonly referred to as "pants" in American English.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈtraʊ.zɚz/
• Respelling: TROW-zurz

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈtraʊ.zəz/
• Respelling: TROW-zuhz

Etymology

The word "trousers" originates from the Gaelic word "triubhas," meaning "close-fitting shorts or breeches," and was adopted into English in the 16th century. The term evolved to denote the bifurcated garment commonly worn today.

Derivatives

• Trousered (adjective)
• Trouserless (adjective)
• Trousering (noun, fabric)
• Trouserlike (adjective)
• Overtrousers (noun)

Synonyms

• Pants
• Slacks
• Breeches

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The word "trousers" is widely used in British English to refer to lower-body garments. For example, "He bought a new pair of trousers for work." In American English, "pants" is more common, while "trousers" might be used in formal or specific contexts.

Related Terms

• Shorts: A shorter version of trousers, ending above the knee.
• Jeans: Denim trousers.
• Overalls: Garments that include trousers with an attached bib or covering for the upper body.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A garment covering the lower body with separate sections for each leg: Refers to clothing worn for various purposes, from casual to formal.
  • Example: "She wore black trousers to the interview."
• Used metaphorically to signify authority or responsibility: Refers to the figurative role of decision-making or control.
  • Example: "In this family, she’s the one who wears the trousers."