high waters

plural noun

, Slang.

1. trousers short enough to expose the ankles, especially as worn by growing children whom they earlier fit.

Word History and Origins

Origin of high waters¹

An Americanism dating back to 1855–60

Example Sentences

Although forecasters expected storms to begin tapering off in southeastern Texas, high waters continued to close some roads and left residents facing lengthy cleanups in neighborhoods where rising river levels led to weekend evacuation orders.

From Seattle Times

Floodwaters partially submerged cars and roads this week across parts of southeastern Texas, north of Houston, where high waters reached the roofs of some homes.

From Seattle Times

No injuries or deaths have been reported, but officials have reported several people being rescued from high waters.

From Seattle Times

They have carried out several anti-piracy missions in addition to helping at least four merchant vessels that were attacked in the high waters amid Israel’s war with Hamas.

From Seattle Times

Her neighbor had tried to drive through high waters on a flooded road and had to be rescued from the roof of her car by the Coast Guard, video taken by Langer showed.

From Seattle Times