The Indian Connection:
* "Pajamas" is derived from the Hindi word "pajama," meaning "leg garment" or "trousers." This term itself is believed to have originated from the Persian word "payjama," meaning "leg-clothing."
* The Hindi word likely entered the English language via the British colonial presence in India during the 19th century.
Early Usage in English:
* The first recorded use of "pajamas" in English was in 1870, referring to loose, wide-legged trousers worn in India.
* Initially, it was used to describe the garment itself, not the entire sleeping outfit.
The Shift to Sleepwear:
* By the late 19th century, the term "pajamas" began to encompass the complete sleeping garment, including a top.
* The popularity of pajamas as comfortable and practical sleepwear grew, especially among British military personnel stationed in India.
Evolution and Modern Usage:
* Today, "pajamas" is universally recognized as the term for loose-fitting sleepwear, typically comprising trousers and a top.
* The word has undergone some pronunciation changes over time, with the stress shifting from the first syllable to the second.
In summary, the word "pajamas" has its roots in South Asian languages and traveled to English through British colonial influence. It initially referred to loose trousers, but evolved to describe the full sleepwear ensemble we know today.