- This word is derived from the noun pants, with the derivational prefix "de-" attached to the word, creating a word that means "to remove a person's pants". The "de-" prefix has been applied to nouns in other cases, carrying the meaning of "to remove". For example, to devalue is to remove an objects value, while to de-bone is to remove the bones of an animal for consumption.
de-pants
transitive verb; derivation
to perform a prank in which a person pulls down the pants of the victim, embarrassing them by exposing their underwear.
Etymology : Derivation of pants, from "pantaloons", a kind of tights, from the name "Pantaloun", a character in an Italian comedy known for his distinctive trousers.
Source : "The boys' pranks included antics like de-pantsing." From an article on the internet about a group of brothers, November, 2013. Etymology from Etymonline.
Last modified: 26 November 2013