galluses: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowRegional/Dated
Quick answer
What does “galluses” mean?
A pair of braces or suspenders for holding up trousers.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A pair of braces or suspenders for holding up trousers.
A regional or dated term for a trouser support system, typically consisting of straps over the shoulders.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The term is extremely rare in contemporary British English, where 'braces' is standard. In American English, it is a dated, regional (especially Southern and Appalachian) term for 'suspenders'.
Connotations
Both regions: connotes old-fashioned, rustic, or working-class attire. In American usage, can carry a folksy or rustic charm.
Frequency
Very low frequency in both. Higher historical frequency in specific American dialects.
Grammar
How to Use “galluses” in a Sentence
He wore [a pair of] galluses.His galluses [snapped/broke].Vocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Only in historical, cultural, or linguistic studies.
Everyday
Virtually obsolete; might be used deliberately for nostalgic or humorous effect by older speakers in specific regions.
Technical
Not used in modern tailoring; historical costume contexts only.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “galluses”
- Using it as a singular noun (e.g., 'a gallus').
- Confusing it with modern, elastic suspenders.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It is treated as a plural noun, similar to 'trousers' or 'scissors'. One refers to 'a pair of galluses'.
'Braces' is the standard term in British English.
'Suspenders' is the standard term in American English.
Primarily for deliberate historical accuracy, regional dialect flavour, or nostalgic/humorous effect.
A pair of braces or suspenders for holding up trousers.
Galluses is usually regional/dated in register.
Galluses: in British English it is pronounced /ˈɡæləsɪz/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈɡæləsɪz/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “"He's so thin he could hide behind his galluses." (Southern US expression suggesting extreme thinness)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'gallus' sounding like 'gallop'. A cowboy might need his galluses to keep his trousers up while galloping.
Conceptual Metaphor
SUPPORT IS SUSPENSION (galluses suspend/support trousers from above).
Practice
Quiz
In which regional dialect is 'galluses' historically most recognised?