/nik"euhrz/ , n. ( used with a pl. v. )
1. Also, knickerbockers /nik"euhr bok'euhrz/ . loose-fitting short trousers gathered in at the knees.
2. Chiefly Brit.
a. a bloomerslike undergarment worn by women.
b. panties.
3. Brit. Informal. a woman's or girl's short-legged underpants.
4. to get one's knickers in a twist , Brit. Slang. to get flustered or agitated: Don't get your knickers in a twist every time the telephone rings.
[ 1880-85; shortened form of knickerbockers, pl. of KNICKERBOCKER, special use of KNICKERBOCKER ]