petticoat breeches

plural noun

1. men's breeches, often ornate, having loose, skirtlike legs, worn in France and England from about 1650 to 1680.

Word History and Origins

Origin of petticoat breeches¹

First recorded in 1650–60

Example Sentences

It resembled a man dressed in what, in former ages, were known as petticoat-breeches.

From Project Gutenberg

The petticoat breeches were exchanged for those tied beneath the knee.

From Project Gutenberg

A garment called the petticoat breeches was introduced into England in 1658.

From Project Gutenberg

At last he gave himself a shake, stooped and wiped his knife and hand and arm upon the loose petticoat breeches of the dead man.

From Project Gutenberg

The figure of the exquisite of 1670 from Jacquemin wears the petticoat breeches, but without the ruffles or frills at the knees.

From Project Gutenberg