What does CHAPS mean?

Chaps 1. Parts of Speech

Noun, Verb (used with object)

2. Definitions

• Protective leather leggings worn by cowboys to protect their legs from brush and thorns.
• Mens trousers, especially ones made of leather.
• To crack or split, as the skin.

3. Pronunciations (US, UK)

• US: /tʃæps/
• UK: /tʃaps/

4. Origin and Usage

The word "chaps" originated in the American West in the late 19th century as a shortened form of "chaparejos," which is Spanish for "leather overalls." Chaps were originally worn by cowboys to protect their legs from brush and thorns while riding through rough terrain. Today, the word "chaps" is also commonly used to refer to mens leather trousers.

5. Synonyms

Leather leggings, leather pants, leather trousers, breeches, jodhpurs

6. Related Words

Leather, pants, jeans, slacks, skirt

7. Example Sentences

• The cowboy wore chaps to protect his legs from the cactus.
• He put on his chaps and mounted his horse.
• The harsh winter weather had chapped his lips and hands.