The word "Chivarras" is spelled with two "r's" and two "a's" in the middle. It is pronounced as /tʃɪˈvarəz/, with the stress on the second syllable. The "ch" is pronounced as a voiceless palato-alveolar affricate, as in "cheese." The "i" in the first syllable is pronounced as a short vowel sound, as in "kit," and the "a's" in the middle are pronounced as short vowel sounds, as in "cat." The final "as" is pronounced as a schwa sound, as in the word "ago."
Chivarras is a term used primarily in Mexican culture to describe a specific type of cowboy attire worn by charros, or Mexican horsemen. Also known as chaps, chivarras are an important component of traditional charro outfits, which are commonly worn during rodeos, festivals, and parades.
Chivarras are typically made from durable leather and consist of two separate legs that cover the lower body from the waist down. They are designed to protect the charro's legs while riding horses or working with livestock. Chivarras extend from the waist down to the ankles, covering the front and sides of the legs, leaving the back open to allow for flexibility and ease of movement.
These leather pants are often adorned with intricate, hand-tooled decorative designs, such as floral or geometric patterns, reflecting the skill and craftsmanship of the charro. Some chivarras may also feature silver or metal accents, enhancing their visual appeal and cultural significance.
Chivarras serve both practical and symbolic purposes. They provide protection to the charro's legs from hazards such as brush, thorns, or even rope burns. Additionally, chivarras represent a connection to Mexico's rich equestrian and ranching traditions, and are considered an important symbol of charro culture and identity.
The word "Chivarras" originates from Spanish, specifically from the Mexican Spanish dialect. It refers to a type of traditional Mexican horse riding trousers worn by charros, who are Mexican cowboys.
The etymology of the word can be traced back to the Spanish word "chiva", which means "goat". This term refers to the fact that the trousers were traditionally made from goat leather. Over time, the term "chiva" evolved into "chivarras" to specifically refer to this type of trousers. The word has since become widely used in Mexican Spanish to describe the charro trousers, although it is not used in other Spanish-speaking countries.