legging

noun

leg·​ging ˈle-gən 

also ˈlā-, 

-giŋ

variants or less commonly leggin

ˈle-gən 

also ˈlā-

plural leggings also leggins

1

a

: pants that are made of a material that stretches to fit tightly around the legs

—usually used in plural

Lycra-cotton leggings and tunic tops are the pregnant woman's best friend, sartorially speaking.

—Anne Reeks

b

: tights

—usually used in plural

Something about the name "footed leggings" just makes these sound way warmer than your basic tights.

—Melanie Richtman

2

a

: a covering (as of leather or cloth) for the legs worn over pants for protection

—usually used in plural

Welding leggings protect the lower leg (from the knee down) from sparks and spatter. Leather is naturally abrasion and flame resistant for use in applications with heavy sparks and spatter.

—Grainger.com

b

: a pair of separate coverings (as of leather or cloth) for the legs

—usually used in plural

Suspended by leather thongs on either side of the same belt were leggings worn [by Plains men] as protection against cold temperatures or intense sun.

—John Koster

Examples of legging in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Bündchen's Garnier commercial also saw her in a relaxed athleisure ensemble, composed of a chocolate-brown sports bra, matching leggings, and an army-green track jacket. —Christina Perrier, InStyle, 3 Mar. 2026

The ZenMode Mule‘s upper feels soft (like your favorite pair of Lululemon leggings) and plush against the foot, while the aforementioned layer of memory foam topping the sockliner guarantees soft landings — each and every time. —Rudolf Obias, Footwear News, 3 Mar. 2026

The Row and Celine might also have something to do with the legging’s comeback as a wardrobe essential, styled more intentionally than just white socks and a chunky sneaker. —Talia Abbas, Vogue, 28 Feb. 2026

Find workout leggings, flowy skirts, lightweight jackets, breathable shorts, and everyday essentials like classic tees to wear all season. —Caley Sturgill, Southern Living, 28 Feb. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1718, in the meaning defined at sense 2b

Rhymes for legging

• begging
• pegging
• bootlegging

Kids Definition

legging

noun

leg·​ging

variants or leggin

ˈleg-ən 

ˈleg-iŋ

: a covering for the leg