Why are Men's bathing garments called TRUNKS, isn't this a tad uncouth?

Question

Of course Trunk is the middle part of the body from chest to groin. But actually trunks don't cover the mid bit.

Answer 1

Hosiery would be a better term.

Answer 2

That's funny, I never thought of that. They are named after what they contain, or at least what htey contain for some of us...like me....lol

Answer 3

Speedos are called budgie smugglers

Answer 4

Perhaps because ladies wear bathing suits and men cannot wear suits so they chose the word trunks....suits as is suitcase and trunk as in male suitcase or trunk....Oh I do not know I am just having a bad guess, me drinking chocolate is starting to work.

Answer 5

Never thought about it so don't know why. Certainly prefer the longer ones as I hate seeing middle aged to old men in scanty Poser Pants trunks.....c'mon girls.......just what are they like? You guys take a hint!!!

Answer 6

you've never sniffed a pair have you?

otherwise you wouldn't need to ask

trunks were also perforated boxes for keeping live fish in (1440)

and in 1825 the first trunks were short breeches of silk often worn over tights for theatrical purposes....

first worn by swimmers and athletes in 1883

Answer 7

No. Can you explain your reasoning?

Answer 8

Beacuse they hold in the "elephant trunk"

Answer 9

Because their junk goes into the trunk.  

Answer 10

I think they call them trunks because it isn't politically correct to call them by any other name. Besides the term "Swimming pants" may infuriate those who would prefer them to be called Swimming Knickers.

Somehow either just doesn't sound as masculine as trunks.  

Answer 11

No,for some men it's a compliment!