1. Origin in India:
* The word "dungaree" is derived from the Hindi word "dungri," which refers to a coarse, durable cotton fabric. This fabric was originally produced in the city of Dungarpur in Rajasthan, India.
2. Use in 19th Century:
* In the 19th century, this sturdy cotton fabric was exported from India to the United States, primarily for use as sailcloth and workwear.
* American sailors and dockworkers appreciated the fabric's durability and water resistance, making it ideal for their harsh working conditions.
3. Americanization and Evolution:
* The term "dungaree" became associated with the workwear made from this Indian fabric.
* In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, dungarees evolved into the familiar denim trousers we know today.
* Denim, originally a twill weave cloth from Nimes, France, was adopted for workwear and gradually replaced the original dungri fabric.
4. Modern Usage:
* Today, "dungarees" still refers to casual trousers or overalls, but the term is less common than "jeans" or "denim."
* However, the term "dungaree" is still used in some regions, particularly in the Southern United States, and it can be found in the names of brands and products related to workwear.
So, while the fabric itself may have originated in India, the word "dungaree" and its association with workwear came to be defined in the United States during the 19th and early 20th centuries.