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

See Examples For:

long johns

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

I borrowed the idea of “La Ronde,” but made it long johns instead because it was reflective of what their lives were like in the cold.

From New York Times ● Sep. 16, 2022

“It’s such an Alaskan thing to do, is let your friends know what gear they need for the day. So I knew I needed to wear my long johns, thanks to Sarah’s text.”

From Slate ● Aug. 17, 2022

The May Company opened for business in Leadville, Colo., in 1877, selling Levi’s and long johns to miners.

From Los Angeles Times ● Dec. 14, 2021

It was a man in his long johns and he didn’t have a face.

From "The Seven Wonders of Sassafras Springs" by Betty G. Birney