Definition of knickers

The word "knickers" is an informal term for women's undergarments, particularly long underwear or stockings. The origin of the word is unclear, but it is believed to have emerged in the mid-19th century in Britain. One theory is that it comes from the Scottish Gaelic phrase "cnocaire," meaning "netherstocks" or "underhose." Another theory suggests that it may have originated from the German word "Kniecher," meaning "knee hurdles" or "garters," which was used to describe obsolete undergarments with knee-high stockings. In the late 19th century, "knickers" began to be used in England to refer to long, woolen stockings worn by women, often with garters. The term eventually expanded to include other types of women's undergarments, such as bloomers and culottes. Today, "knickers" is often used in British English to refer to any type of women's underwear, while in American English, "underwear" or " panties" are more commonly used.