calzones
/kalˈθones/
The English phrase chonies refers to the Spanish slang term for underwear.
chonies is a slang term used to refer to underwear, specifically men's briefs or women's panties.
Which one should you use?
While calzones is the standard term for underwear, chonies is a highly informal, colloquial variation that uses a diminutive-style slang structure.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
chonies is highly informal slang. For more standard or less colloquial contexts, you might use calzones.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Argentina, people commonly use the term bombachas in a casual context to refer to women's underwear.
How do you pronounce it?
/kalˈθones/
Did you know?
- In many countries, the word calzones can refer to both underwear and 'pants' or 'trousers' depending on the local dialect, which can cause confusion for travelers.
- The term chonies is a linguistic marker of Chicano or Mexican-American identity. It is much more common in border communities and among US-based Spanish speakers than in many parts of mainland Mexico.
- The suffix used in chonies mimics the way Spanish speakers use the diminutive -itos to express affection, but it is applied here to a slang root to create a playful, almost ironic tone.
Examples in context
- Necesito comprar unos calzones nuevos.I need to buy some new underwear.
- ¿Dónde dejaste mis calzones?Where did you leave my underwear?
- Estos calzones son muy cómodos.This underwear is very comfortable.
Example conversation
María and Alejandro are doing laundry at home.
- MaríaAlejandro, ¿viste mis calzones?Alejandro, did you see my underwear?
- AlejandroSí, están en la cesta de la ropa.Yes, they are in the laundry basket.
- MaríaGracias, ya los voy a lavar.Thanks, I'm going to wash them now.
- AlejandroDe nada, María.You're welcome, María.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry calzones, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
