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.