Definition of "knee-cords" [knee-cords]

• Knee-breeches made of corded fabric, as corduroy; corded breeches.

The Century Dictionary (Public Domain)

• "The bailiff was in very high spirits this first morning of the new year -- almost uproarious spirits indeed, which vented themselves in snatches of boisterous song, as he bustled backwards and forwards from house to stables, dressed in his best blue coat and bright buttons and a capacious buff waistcoat; with his ponderous nether limbs clothed in knee-cords, and boots with vinegar tops; looking altogether the typical"
• "It had been long his ambition to stand in a bar of his own, in a green coat, knee-cords, and tops."
• "Very few people but those who have tried it, know what a difficult process it is to bow in green velvet smalls, and a tight jacket, and high-crowned hat; or in blue satin trunks and white silks, or knee-cords and top-boots that were never made for the wearer, and have been fixed upon him without the remotest reference to the comparative dimensions of himself and the suit."