long johns

American  

noun

(used with a plural verb)

1. long underwear, especially for winter use.

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long johns British  

plural noun

1. informal underpants with long legs

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Etymology

Origin of long johns

First recorded in 1940–45

Example Sentences

There was a pervasive smell of what I would learn was wet, sweaty long johns.

From Slate • Apr. 27, 2025

This time period also brought the introduction of union suits—predecessors of long johns and onesies—to meet the needs of both men and women.

From National Geographic • Jan. 9, 2024

Teams dress in layers — long johns, hats, gloves and hand warmers for the frigid overnight and morning hours.

From Seattle Times • Oct. 4, 2023

He and his cartoon avatar dressed in red long johns and a Napoleon bicorne hat.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 30, 2023

It seemed very strange—very novel—to be standing outdoors in long johns.

From "A Walk in the Woods" by Bill Bryson