Mens bamboo underpants and what Brits call them

Short answer: Mens bamboo underpants are what a Briton calls underwear for men, and pants in British English means underpants, not trousers. Americans say underwear or shorts for the underwear and pants for the long trousers, which can cause confusion when you shop in English.

What a Briton says

In British English, underpants and pants are words for underwear, while trousers are the long legs. Briefs, trunks and boxers are names for cuts, not for the whole product group. Once you know the difference, you can search and read labels without misunderstandings.

What an American says

In the US, pants means long trousers, and underwear is called underwear. Briefs and boxers are used as well, and shorts are short trousers worn outside. The same word can therefore mean two different things, depending on where the writer comes from.

Three words for mens bamboo underpants you often meet

Underpants, briefs and boxers are the words you most often see in English. Underpants is a collective term, briefs are close-fitting without a leg, and boxers are loose. Trunks have a short leg and sit between briefs and boxers.

The fabric is the same across words

The words do not change how the fabric feels. Bamboo viscose is soft and smooth, whether the item is called underpants or underwear. Read the fibre share on the label so you know what the fabric consists of.

Size in English and Danish

Sizes are often given as small, medium and large in English, but your own measurements decide what fits. Measure your waist and hips and use the size chart. The size can vary slightly between brands, so always check.

What you see on the label

A label in English typically shows fibre, care advice and size. Words such as cotton, viscose and elastane are standard on English labels. Also read the care symbols, so you know how to look after bamboo boxer briefs.

Care is the same everywhere

Whatever the language, the care is the same: a gentle wash at a low temperature, no fabric softener and no hot tumble dryer. Air drying keeps the fabric soft for longest. Always follow the care label, because it can vary between products.

When you shop in English

When you search in English, try several words for the same item, because shops use different ones. Look at the full range of bamboo underwear for men and remember bamboo T-shirts for men. Then you do not depend on a single word.

Frequently asked questions

What does pants mean in British English?

In British English, pants means underpants, while the long trousers are called trousers. In the US, pants means the long trousers.

Are underpants and underwear the same?

Nearly. Underpants is a specific word for the lower garment, while underwear is a broader word for undergarments, and both appear in English.

What is the difference between briefs and trunks?

Briefs have no leg and cover only the middle, while trunks have a short leg. Both are close-fitting, and the choice depends on what you wear on top.