English expression in use by sailors in the Royal
Navy before the Second World War. It refers to
large, baggy and shapeless underwear that can be male or female attire. When male it refers to the baggy shorts that were issued to both junior and senior rates at the time. When female, it refers to the baggy bloomers
type of knickers with elasticated legs, the sight of which is guaranteed to turn off all but the most ardent (or desperate) suitors. In short they are the sort of thing that not even Bridget
Jones would wear.