[Abbreviation of SPATTERDASH.] A short gaiter worn over the instep and reaching only a little way above the ankle, usually fastened under the foot by means of a strap. Chiefly in pl.
1802. James, Milit. Dict., Spatts, a small sort of spatterdashes, that reach only a little above the ancle, called also half gaiters.
1820. Hogg, Shepherd’s Cal., xiv. Take in black spats, and a very narrow-brimmed hat, and you have the figure complete.
1863. Mrs. March, Heathside Farm, I. 28. Whose nether man was generally cased in brown spats (Anglice gaiters).
1883. Times (weekly ed.), 16 Nov., 3/4. He wore a pair of dark spats with light buttons.
