Definition

1. Noun:
   • A type of puffed or padded breeches: "Trunk hose" refers to a specific style of men's short breeches that were fashionable in the 16th and 17th centuries. They were characterized by being heavily padded, puffed out, and often ending above the knee. They were typically worn over hose (tight-fitting leg coverings).

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The nobleman's portrait shows him wearing elaborate trunk hose.
  • Trunk hose were a distinctive feature of Elizabethan and Jacobean fashion.

Advanced Usage

• Historical Context: The term is used almost exclusively in historical or costume discussions to describe Renaissance and early Baroque European clothing.
  • The actor's costume included authentic trunk hose for the Shakespearean play.

Variants and Related Words

• Hose (n): In historical context, refers to tight-fitting coverings for the legs and feet, often worn with trunk hose or other breeches.
• Breeches (n): A general term for various styles of short trousers ending at or above the knee, under which trunk hose is categorized.
• Slops (n): Another historical term sometimes used for full, baggy breeches, which can be related to or synonymous with certain styles of trunk hose.

Synonyms

• Puffed breeches: A descriptive synonym emphasizing the garment's inflated appearance.
• Round hose: An alternative historical name for a similar style of padded short breeches.

Related Phrases

• Pair of trunk hose: The standard phrasing when referring to the garment.
  • He ordered a new pair of trunk hose from the tailor.

Notes on Meaning

• The term is a compound noun. Its meaning is specific and historical. It does not refer to modern clothing. The "trunk" in the name refers to the short, trunk-like appearance of the breeches, not to a storage container or an elephant's nose.

Noun

1. puffed breeches of the 16th and 17th centuries usually worn over hose