chaps: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1specialized, informal
Quick answer
What does “chaps” mean?
Sturdy leather leggings worn over trousers, originally to protect the legs of cowboys.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
Sturdy leather leggings worn over trousers, originally to protect the legs of cowboys.
1. (Mainly US, informal) A familiar, informal form of address for men. 2. (Used as plural of 'chap') Men or fellows.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
In British English, 'chaps' is rarely used for leather leggings. It's primarily the plural of 'chap' (man) or an informal term of address ('Hello, chaps!'). In American English, the primary meaning is the leather garment; the vocative use is less common and may be perceived as British.
Connotations
US: strong connotations of cowboys, ranchers, the American West. UK: connotations of informal, possibly upper/middle-class male camaraderie (like 'lads').
Frequency
High frequency in US in specific contexts (Western wear, history). In UK, the vocative is medium-low frequency and somewhat dated. The plural of 'chap' is common in both.
Grammar
How to Use “chaps” in a Sentence
He put on his [leather] chaps.The [cowboys'] chaps were dusty.A group of [young] chaps entered the pub.Vocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Virtually never used.
Academic
Used in historical/cultural studies of the American West.
Everyday
Common in US regions with Western culture; in UK, informal address among (older) men.
Technical
Specific to equestrian, rodeo, or historical reenactment contexts for the garment.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “chaps”
- Using 'a chaps' (uncountable as garment, plural as men).
- Using the vocative 'chaps' in formal American contexts.
- Spelling as 'chaps' when meaning 'chop' (cut).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It is plural. The singular (for the garment) is rarely used but is 'chap'. As a term for men, it's the plural of 'chap'.
No, it is exclusively masculine. Use 'folks', 'everyone', or similar gender-neutral terms for mixed or female groups.
No. Chaps are not full trousers; they are leg coverings without a seat, worn over trousers for protection.
Not typically. It's perceived as a Britishism. Americans are more likely to say 'Hey guys!' or 'Hey folks!'.
Sturdy leather leggings worn over trousers, originally to protect the legs of cowboys.
Chaps is usually specialized, informal in register.
Chaps: in British English it is pronounced /tʃæps/, and in American English it is pronounced /tʃæps/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Old chaps! (dated British exclamation)”
- “Rough chaps (informal for tough men)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
CHAPS: Cowboy's Hardy, Armored Pants for Saddles.
Conceptual Metaphor
PROTECTION IS A SKIN (leather chaps as a second skin for legs).
Practice
Quiz
In which context would the word 'chaps' most likely refer to a garment?