Trackies
Part of speech: noun
Definitions
- A type of casual, often drawstring pants typically made from soft materials ideal for lounging or exercising
- Loose-fitting trousers that are usually associated with sportswear and leisure activities
- Comfortable and relaxed apparel often worn for physical activities or casual outings
Etymology: "Trackies" is the informal, clipped form of "tracksuit," with the "-ies" ending that Australian and British speakers attach to many shortened words. The base "tracky" or "trackie" was formed by chopping "track" from "tracksuit," and the "-s" plural and "-ies" endings were then added to the shortened stem. The result is a word that sounds cheerful and casual, which suits the garments it names. The "track" in "tracksuit" is the same word as the one for a running course, and the garment got its name because it was originally worn by athletes on the track and during training. Over time the suit moved beyond sport and into everyday wear, and the clipped form was adopted in casual speech.
Synonyms: tracksuits, sweats