Knickerbocker
/ˈnɪkərˌbɑːkər/noun
A native or resident of New York City, especially one descended from the city’s early Dutch settlers; also used for a style of loose-fitting trousers.
Did you know?The word was popularized in 1809 by Washington Irving, who used the invented Dutch-sounding name Knickerbocker as a pseudonym and then turned it into a legendary label for old New York.
Etymological Timeline
1809
English
Knickerbocker
“An invented Dutch-sounding surname used by Washington Irving as a literary persona”
19th Century
English
Knickerbocker
“A nickname for a New Yorker of old Dutch descent, especially in literary and social use”
19th Century
English
knickerbockers
“Loose-fitting knee breeches worn in the style associated with old Dutch dress”
Modern English
English
knickerbocker
“A resident or native of New York City, especially one linked to its early Dutch heritage”