trousers
trousers
Pronunciation
The IPA phonetic spelling for "trousers" is /ˈtraʊ.zərz/.
/ˈtraʊ/
/zərz/
Word Form Variations
Noun: trousers (plural form, but typically functions as a singular concept for a single garment, e.g., "a pair of trousers"). It does not have a singular form trouser when referring to the garment itself in standard modern English.
Adjective: trouser (used attributively, e.g., "trouser leg," "trouser suit")
Definitions, Synonyms and Antonyms
Noun
Definition 1: An outer garment covering the body from the waist to the ankles, with a separate part for each leg. (This is the primary and almost exclusive meaning).
Synonyms: pants (American English), slacks, britches (archaic/informal), breeches (historical/specialized), strides (informal, British)
Antonyms: skirt, dress, shorts (as alternative lower body garments)
Definition 2: (Figurative, informal, often "to wear the trousers") Authority or control within a household or relationship.
Synonyms: authority, control, dominance, leadership, command
Antonyms: submission, subservience, passivity, obedience
Adjective
Definition 1: Of or relating to trousers; designed for trousers. (Used attributively)
Synonyms: pant (attributive, American English), leg (as in trouser leg)
Antonyms: (No direct antonym, refers to a specific garment part)
Examples of Use
Books:
"He quickly pulled on his work trousers and a sturdy shirt, ready for a day in the fields." (Fictional example from a historical novel or rural drama)
"The book offers a comprehensive guide to tailoring, including detailed instructions on how to properly cut and stitch men's trousers." (From a non-fiction book on fashion design or tailoring)
"Despite his quiet demeanor, it was clear that she wore the trousers in their relationship, making all the major decisions." (Fictional example, idiomatic use, from a contemporary novel)
Newspapers:
"The President visited a local textile factory, highlighting the production of school uniforms, including durable trousers." ("Daily Nation,")
"Leading fashion retailers are showcasing new trends in sustainable men's trousers for the upcoming season." ("The Standard,")
"Economists debate who will ultimately 'wear the trousers' in the new coalition government." ("Business Daily Africa," )
Online Publications:
"Our ultimate guide to choosing the perfect pair of hiking trousers for your next outdoor adventure." (An article on an outdoor gear review site, e.g., REI Expert Advice)
"How to properly iron your dress trousers to achieve a crisp, professional look." (An article on a fashion or lifestyle blog, e.g., Art of Manliness)
"A viral video shows a cat attempting to climb up its owner's trouser leg for attention." (A humorous animal content site, e.g., The Dodo)
Various Entertainment Mediums and Platforms:
Film: "The dude abides. I don't know about you, but I'm going to bowl." (Jeff Bridges as The Dude in The Big Lebowski, 1998) - His iconic, comfortable "trousers" are central to his character's look.
Television Series: "For your next challenge, you must design and sew a complete outfit, including a pair of tailored trousers." (Instructions on a fashion design reality show, e.g., Project Runway)
Song Lyrics: "No more teachers, no more books, no more dirty looks. Just good ol' rock and roll." (Pink Floyd, "Another Brick in the Wall, Part 2," 1979) - The line often evokes the image of school uniforms, including "trousers."
Video Games: "Your character equips the 'Reinforced Leather Trousers,' gaining a bonus to defense." (In-game item description in an RPG, e.g., World of Warcraft)
Podcasts: "In this episode, we explore the history of men's fashion, from breeches to modern trousers." (A podcast on fashion history or social trends)
General Public Discourse:
"These trousers are a bit too tight; I need a bigger size." (A common complaint about clothing)
"Did you iron your trousers for the meeting today?" (A common question in a professional household)
"My son ripped his trousers playing football." (A common statement about children's clothes)
"Who wears the trousers in your house?" (A common idiom to ask about who is in charge)
"I prefer wearing comfortable trousers when I travel." (A personal preference)
"He always looks smart in his tailored trousers and jacket." (A compliment on appearance)
10 Quotes Using Trousers
"Who wears the trousers in your house?" (Common idiom, widely used to ask who is in charge of a household)
"The first thing I learned in life was that you have to take off your pants before you can put on your trousers." (Lesser-known, humorous quote, implying a necessary sequence)
"I put my trousers on, and then I put on my shoes." (Inspired by the common nursery rhyme "Head, Shoulders, Knees, and Toes" or everyday dressing, a relatable sequence)
"You never truly understand a person until you consider things from his point of view... until you climb into his skin and walk around in it." (Harper Lee, To Kill a Mockingbird, 1960) - This implicitly refers to empathy, including figuratively stepping into another's "trousers."
"If you want to be a writer, you must do two things above all others: read a lot and write a lot." (Stephen King, On Writing, 2000) - This speaks to the fundamental "trousers-on-the-seat" work of a writer.
"He was a man of impeccable style, always with perfectly creased trousers." (Original quote, descriptive of a well-dressed individual)
"Don't worry about your difficulties in mathematics. I can assure you mine are still greater." (Albert Einstein) - This implies a humbling experience, perhaps feeling like one's "trousers" are too big for one's current understanding.
"My old trousers are too tight; it's time for an upgrade." (Common relatable personal observation)
"She really pulled her weight, proving she could wear the trousers in any situation." (Lesser-known, but common idiomatic use for a capable woman)
"The magician pulled a rabbit from his trousers." (Original, playing on a classic magic trick, implying hidden capabilities)
Etymology
The word "trousers" has a rather interesting and somewhat unusual journey into English!
It comes from the Scottish Gaelic word triubhas, which referred to "close-fitting short breeches" or "hose." This word itself is linked to the Irish Gaelic word triúbhas.
These Gaelic garments were typically tight-fitting leg coverings, different from the looser breeches or hose worn elsewhere.
The word "trousers" entered English from Scottish Gaelic in the early 17th century (around 1610s).
Its first known meaning in English was "a close-fitting garment covering the lower body and legs, typically worn by men, especially in the Highlands of Scotland."
It's interesting to note that "trousers" is almost always used in the plural form (like "scissors" or "pants") because it refers to a garment with two distinct leg parts. This plural usage has been consistent since its adoption into English.
Phrases + Idioms Containing Trousers
Here's a list of phrases and idioms using "trousers":
To wear the trousers: To be the dominant partner in a relationship or household; to be in charge.
Catch one's trousers on fire: (Figurative, often informal) To be caught in a lie or false statement. (Synonymous with "pants on fire," but using "trousers").
To pull up one's trousers: To prepare for hard work or to face a challenge. (Similar to "roll up one's sleeves").
Trouser suit: A woman's suit consisting of a jacket and trousers.
Trouser leg: The part of a pair of trousers that covers one leg.
To get caught with one's trousers down: To be discovered in an embarrassing or vulnerable situation.
To soil one's trousers: (Euphemistic) To accidentally defecate in one's pants due to fear or illness. (Lesser-known, more polite euphemism).
To get a good fit in trousers: To find a pair of trousers that is comfortable and well-proportioned. (Original phrase, everyday use).
To roll up one's sleeves: To prepare for hard work. (Synonymous with "pulling up one's trousers").
To have tight trousers: (Informal) To be in a difficult financial situation or have limited options. (Synonymous with "being strapped for cash").
To have ants in one's pants: To be restless or fidgety. (Related to uncomfortable trousers).
To put on one's big boy/girl trousers: (Informal) To act maturely and take responsibility.
A pair of slacks: A casual type of trousers. (Synonym).
Dress pants: Formal trousers. (Synonym).
Vocabulary-Based Stories from SEA
Source Information
Definition of trousers from The Academic Glossary at Self Exploration Academy, a Urikville Press Publication. © All rights reserved.
