pedal pushers

American  

plural noun

1. slacks that extend to about the midpoint of the calf, worn by girls and women, originally used when cycling.

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pedal pushers British  

plural noun

1. calf-length trousers or jeans worn by women

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Etymology

Origin of pedal pushers

An Americanism dating back to 1940–45

Example Sentences

She was excited and bought new pedal pushers and tennis shoes.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 30, 2019

“To be honest, it’s been very surreal for me,” said Ms. Maslany, dressed in faded denim pedal pushers, an oversize print blouse and bright red lipstick.

From New York Times • Apr. 17, 2014

I had a pair of grey, corduroy pedal pushers which I was obsessed with.

From The Guardian • Feb. 7, 2013

Skirts and dresses were the mainstay of the collection, with some roomy shorts - lovely in leather with equally roomy V-neck tops with three-quarter sleeves - and slim-fitting pedal pushers.

From Seattle Times • Sep. 23, 2012

The band shell was deserted, and the woman in pedal pushers quietly reeled in her line, and Dr. Mason’s sprinkler went round and round.

From "The Things They Carried" by Tim O'Brien