It basically means don’t get upset, or don’t get agitated. The original expression was “don’t get your knickers in a twist.” Knickers were long socks/tights worn by women, and the idea is that if women were upset or agitated, their knickers might get in a twist and look bad. “Knot” was probably substituted to exaggerate for effect – plus, it just sounds good. There are other variations, as well, such as “panties in a bunch,” “undies in a twist,” etc.
The meaning given is correct, but knickers are not long socks/tights. The word is the standard informal expression in British English for normal underwear, especially when worn by women, what Americans call panties or undies.
It basically means don’t get upset, or don’t get agitated. The original expression was “don’t get your knickers in a twist.” Knickers were long socks/tights worn by women, and the idea is that if women were upset or agitated, their knickers might get in a twist and look bad. “Knot” was probably substituted to exaggerate for effect – plus, it just sounds good. There are other variations, as well, such as “panties in a bunch,” “undies in a twist,” etc.
Was this answer helpful?
LikeDislikeThe meaning given is correct, but knickers are not long socks/tights. The word is the standard informal expression in British English for normal underwear, especially when worn by women, what Americans call panties or undies.
Was this answer helpful?
LikeDislikeKnickers is also used to describe 3/4 length pants, like those used in baseball.
Sometimes called capri.
Was this answer helpful?
LikeDislike