Khakis

Definition: Every time I hear the word khaki, I wonder about its meaning. Khaki is often referred to as a color as well as a type of pant. In fact, both meanings are correct. I researched its origins and learned it comes from a Hindi word meaning earth-colored or dust-colored. But it was due to the British army regiments stationed in India during the 1800s at which time "khaki" became synonymous with describing military uniforms. When the British army first arrived in India they wore bright maroon-colored jackets, making them easy targets against the tan colored surroundings. After changing their uniforms to the khaki color, they discovered that the casualty rate went down, hence the name of their uniforms were known as "khakis." The United States Army adopted khaki colored uniforms during the Spanish American War. Today, khakis come in many colors and fabrics and the word itself refers more to pants or trousers than a military uniform.