pants
UK[pænts]US[pænts]
n
a piece of clothing that covers the body from the waist to the ankles, divided into two parts to cover each leg separately
n
(uk) underpants or knickers
Etymology
the word "pants" is a clipping of "pantaloons," which entered english in the 17th century. "pantaloons" derives from the french "pantalon," itself taken from the italian "pantalone," the name of a foolish old venetian character in the commedia dell'arte who wore distinctive tight trousers. the character's name likely comes from "san pantaleone," a popular saint in venice. through this cultural reference, the name became permanently associated with the garment, and the shortened form "pants" became standard in american english, eventually spreading globally.
Analysis
this word is a simplex loanword. it is a shortened form of the earlier term "pantaloons." the word "pantaloons" originates from the name of a stock character in italian comedy, "pantalone," noted for his tight trousers.
Examples
he bought a new pair of black pants for the interview.
it's so cold outside that i need to wear long pants.
(uk) she packed an extra pair of pants in her gym bag.