spats

Meaning

1. A stiff legging worn over the instep and ankles of a shoe.
2. A similar device for horses.
3. Long hair on front of lower legs of heavier horses (over the hooves), especially draft horses, notably the Clydesdale breed.
4. form-fitting shorts covering the waist to mid- or lower thigh usually worn for athletic situations, compression shorts

Synonyms

leggings

gaiter

gaiters

legging

gauntlet

spat

tights

banket

puttees

Pronounced as (IPA)

/spæts/

Etymology

Clipping of spatterdashes.