Panties or knickers, what the words mean

Short answer: Panties is the usual word in American English and knickers is the usual word in British English, and both describe the same everyday underwear for women. When you compare panties in a shop, look at the cut, the fabric and the waistband rather than the name.

Where the word panties comes from

The word panties is a small, softer form of pants, and it has been used for women's underwear for a long time. In American English it is the default word in shops and on labels. Many people also say underwear or undies, which cover the same garment without picking a side.

Knickers in British English

Knickers is the everyday British word for the same thing, and it is also common in Australia and Ireland. It is a shortened form of an older word for loose trousers, so the name says little about how modern underwear looks. Say knickers in London and panties in Boston, and nobody will misunderstand you.

Why bamboo knickers are listed under both names

Shops choose one word for their pages, so the same cut can be called panties on one site and bamboo knickers on another. Search for both words if you are looking for a specific shape. The product photos and size guide tell you more than the label does.

Briefs, thongs and hipsters are cuts, not synonyms

Panties and knickers are the general words, while briefs, hipsters and thongs describe how much the garment covers. Briefs usually sit higher and cover more, hipsters sit lower on the hip, and thongs have a narrow back. Pick the cut first, then think about which word the shop uses.

How to read the label and size guide

Labels often show waist and hip measurements in centimetres or inches, so measure yourself before ordering. If you land between two sizes, think about how snug you like the waistband. A good fit stays in place when you walk and sit, without digging in at the leg openings or the waist.

Why fabric matters more than the word

Whatever you call them, panties spend the whole day against your skin, so the fabric is worth a look. Bamboo viscose is soft and has a smooth feel, which many people like for everyday wear. Check the care label for the exact blend, since it varies between models and brands.

Care tips that work for both words

Wash new underwear before wearing it, and follow the care label for temperature and drying. Use a laundry bag if you want to protect the seams and elastic. Avoid high heat in the dryer, which can wear on elastic and make fabric lose its shape over time.

Building a drawer that suits you

Think about the days you actually have, such as work, workouts, travel and sleep. A mix of cuts gives you something for each, for example a higher brief under trousers and a lower hipster for fitted clothes. Soft bamboo underwear for women and a few bamboo tops for women make a simple base layer.

Frequently asked questions

Are panties and knickers the same thing

Yes, they describe the same garment. Panties is the American word and knickers is the British word, so the choice mostly depends on where you live or which shop you are reading.

Which word should I search for when shopping online

Try both, because shops use different words. Add the cut, such as brief or hipster, and the fabric to your search, and check the size guide before you order.

How should I wash bamboo underwear

Follow the care label on the garment. A moderate wash and gentle drying usually help the fabric keep its softness and shape for longer.