Definition

Noun: A type of trousers specifically designed for horse riding. They are typically flared or loose-fitting from the thigh to just below the knee, ending at the calf, and are worn with tall riding boots. This design allows for comfort and flexibility in the saddle while the close fit from the knee down prevents the fabric from catching on the saddle or stirrups.

Usage

Riding breeches are a specialized garment for the equestrian activity of horse riding. They are not general-purpose trousers.

Examples

• Noun:
  • She pulled on her riding breeches before heading to the stable for her lesson.
  • Traditional riding breeches are often made from durable cotton or technical fabrics.
  • The jodhpur style of riding breeches is common for English riding disciplines.

Advanced Usage

• The term can be used metonymically to refer to the activity or lifestyle of horse riding.
  • Example: He was born into a world of riding breeches and polo matches.

Variants and Related Words

• Jodhpurs (n): A specific style of riding breeches that are flared at the hips and thighs and tight from the knee to the ankle, often worn with short jodhpur boots or paddock boots. While often used interchangeably with "riding breeches," "jodhpurs" can refer to a distinct cut.
• Breeches (n): Historically, this term refers to trousers ending just below the knee. "Riding breeches" is a modern, specific compound of this word.
• Riding tights (n): Modern, stretchy, close-fitting trousers for riding, often used in competition. These are a more contemporary evolution of traditional riding breeches.

Synonyms

• Jodhpurs (when referring to that specific style)
• Equestrian trousers

Antonyms

• Jeans
• Dress pants
• Shorts

Notes on Meaning

This is a compound noun ("riding" + "breeches") that functions as a single lexical unit referring to one specific item of clothing. The primary and only meaning is the garment described.

Noun

1. flared trousers ending at the calves; worn with riding boots