tights

American  

[tahyts] / taɪts /

noun

(used with a plural verb)

1. a skin-tight, one-piece garment for the lower part of the body and the legs, now often made of stretch fabric, originally worn by dancers, acrobats, gymnasts, etc., and later made for general wear for adults and children.

2. a leotard with legs and, sometimes, feet.

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tights British  

/ taɪts /

plural noun

1. 1. Also called (US, Canadian, Austral, and NZ): pantyhose.  a one-piece clinging garment covering the body from the waist to the feet, worn by women in place of stockings

   2. Also called: leotards.  a similar, tight-fitting garment worn instead of trousers by either sex

2. a similar garment formerly worn by men, as in the 16th century with a doublet

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Etymology

Origin of tights

1825–35; noun use of tight; -s ³

Example Sentences

In 2010, a Sun News article imagined Martin as a cartoon superhero, “in tights and a cape with the caricature of a microscope emblazoned across his chest.”

From The Wall Street Journal

He also "didn't want to be standing on stage holding a spear for the rest of my life, in wrinkled tights, I just wanted to have a bit of a life".

From BBC

Gemma, who works from home, wears tights under her clothes and swears by her electric blanket.

From BBC

But enough people remember Cain in blue tights and a red cape so that he’s a regular on the fan convention circuit.

From Los Angeles Times

That mindset carries into competition, where Kutrosky suits up with tights, an old race jersey and gloves to grip the railings.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• hosiery
• pantyhose