# spats

> English word · Noun · IPA /spæts/ · frequency rank #56,459

## Definitions
1. A stiff legging worn over the instep and ankles of a shoe.
2. A similar device for horses.
3. Long hair on front of lower legs of heavier horses (over the hooves), especially draft horses, notably the Clydesdale breed.
4. form-fitting shorts covering the waist to mid- or lower thigh usually worn for athletic situations, compression shorts

## Etymology
Clipping of spatterdashes.

## Source
Compiled from Wiktionary via kaikki.org (CC BY-SA). Data vintage: 2026-05-06.
Canonical page: https://plainspell.com/en/word/spats