Trou se rs" (also commonly called "pants" in American English) are a piece of clothing worn on the lower part of the body, covering both legs separately (with a separate tube of fabric for each leg), from the waist to the ankles.
Here are some key characteristics and points about trousers:
1. Leg Separation: This is the defining feature distinguishing them from skirts, dresses, or robes. Each leg has its own separate compartment of fabric.
2. Waistband: They typically have a band (waistband) that sits around the waist or hips, often secured with a zip/button and/or belt.
3. Length: While traditionally ankle-length, trousers come in many lengths: full-length, cropped, capri, shorts (which are essentially very short trousers), etc.
4. Function & Style: Trousers are worn for a vast range of purposes:
Formal: Suit trousers, dress pants, tuxedo pants.
Casual: Jeans, chi no s, cargo pants, sweatpants, leggings (though often debated, they fit the basic definition).
Workwear: Coveralls, cargo pants, specific trade uniforms.
Sport/Activity: Track pants, hiking pants, ski pants.
5. Materials: Made from countless fabrics including cotton (denim, twill, corduroy), wool, linen, polyester, nylon, blends, and more.
6. Regional Terminology:
UK/Australia/NZ/etc.: "Trousers" is the standard term for the garment. "Pants" usually refers to underwear.
U sa /Canada: "Pants" is the standard term for the garment. "Trousers" is often used for more formal styles (like suit pants) but is understood generally.
7. Singular Quirk: The word "trouser" is almost always used in the plural form ("trousers"), even when referring to a single garment. You say "a pair of trousers" (like "a pair of scissors").
In short: Trousers are the fundamental two-legged garment worn from the waist down. They are one of the most common and versatile items of clothing worldwide.
