chaps

[ chaps, shaps ]

noun

, (used with a plural verb)

1. a pair of joined leather leggings, often widely flared, worn over trousers, especially by cowboys, as protection against burs, rope burns, etc., while on horseback.

chaps

/ tʃæps; ʃæps /

plural noun

1. leather overalls without a seat, worn by cowboys Also calledchaparejoschaparajos

Word History and Origins

Origin of chaps¹

1810–20, Americanism; short for chaparajos

Word History and Origins

Origin of chaps¹

C19: shortened from chaparejos

Example Sentences

From leather chaps to a vintage Dior coat, the items that these sellers shared are reminders of why they do what they do — and what makes a piece last a lifetime.

From Los Angeles Times

Instead, what chaps the hide of Vance and all other Republicans whining about "censorship" is the inadequate job social media companies are doing of keeping disinformation off their platforms.

From Salon

Money talks: "Pinch your noses chaps, we’re going in. This is too good to refuse."

From BBC

Even the core lingo comes from the Spanish language: lariat, corral, chaps.

From Los Angeles Times

Current rules were "designed to offer guidance when 'good chaps' could be relied on to observe the letter and the spirit of the rules," Lord Pickles said.

From BBC

Related Words

• knickers
• shorts
• slacks
• trousers
• underpants