Panty

/ˈpænti/ noun

Definition

A piece of women's underwear covering the hips and crotch

Etymology

Diminutive of pants, from pantaloons, named after Saint Pantaleone

Kelly Says

The word 'panty' comes from 'pantaloons,' which were named after a character in Italian comedy who wore tight-fitting trousers!

Ethical Language Guidance

Gender History

Diminutive of 'pant'; gendered lexicon where men's underwear has neutral names ('boxer', 'brief') while women's versions use diminutive forms, reinforcing infantilization.

Inclusive Usage

Use 'underwear' or 'briefs' when gender-neutral; specify 'women's briefs' or 'men's boxers' when needed. Avoid diminutives that reduce women's clothing to cuteness.

Inclusive Alternatives

["underwear","briefs","underpants"]

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