chaps

plural noun

ˈshaps How to pronounce chaps (audio) ˈchaps How to pronounce chaps (audio)
Synonyms of chapsnext
: leather leggings joined by a belt or lacing, often having flared outer flaps, and worn over the trousers (as by western ranch hands)

Illustration of chaps

Illustration of chaps

Examples of chaps in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
In fact, the modern western is self-aware of chaps-less mis-adventurers. — Jordan Calhoun, Men's Health, 2 Nov. 2022 The purple tassels from Joe’s riding chaps fly akimbo as the animal kicks up and down. — Jose A. Del Real, Washington Post, 6 Nov. 2022 The model wore a black crop top paired with a pair of fringed chaps, showing off a pair of matching underwear underneath. — Rosa Sanchez, Harper's BAZAAR, 1 Nov. 2022 Lassos, rodeos, broncos, corrals, ranches, the chaps, the hats are all parts of Mexican culture. — John Leguizamo, Los Angeles Times, 1 Nov. 2022 See All Example Sentences for chaps

Word History

Etymology

modification of Mexican Spanish chaparreras

First Known Use

1844, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of chaps was in 1844

Rhymes for chaps

See All Rhymes for chaps

Browse Nearby Words

chaprassi
chaps
ChapStick
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Chaps.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/chaps. Accessed 10 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

chaps

plural noun
ˈshaps How to pronounce chaps (audio) ˈchaps How to pronounce chaps (audio)
: leather leggings worn especially by western ranch workers

More from Merriam-Webster on chaps

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for chaps

Nglish: Translation of chaps for Spanish Speakers

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