What counts as a kilt?

[kilted2000]

What is the definition of a kilt? I’ve seen kilts for women, but what differentiates that from a normal skirt? What makes a kilt a kilt?

[Steve Ashton]

This question has been asked over and over.
Unfortunately no one has been able to come up with a definition that suits everyone.

Is a kilt a skirt? Well, technically yes.

It will usually have some form of pleating in the back and flat aprons in the front.

But other than that, no two people will give you the same answer.

[kilted2000]

Ok, I’m sorry about asking a question that has been asked to death. I’ll search the forum next time. But this definition does help.

[Steve Ashton]

Don't ever be sorry about asking a question.
I just wish that there was an answer for you.

[KennethSime]

The Oxford English Dictionary is currently pay-for-play, so we'll have to make do with Merriam-Webster.

WM defines skirt as:

a separate free-hanging outer garment or undergarment usually worn by women and girls covering some or all of the body from the waist down

Actually, that's one of a great many definitions offered, for two separate words, however that's the most-appropriate one inn my book.

WM also has two definitions for kilt, but again we'll just use the most-appropriate one:

a knee-length pleated skirt usually of tartan worn by men in Scotland and by Scottish regiments in the British armies

I like Steve's definitions just fine, though. My take is that when people use the term "kilt" or "kilted skirt" to describe a women's garment, they're referring to a skirt which is probably tartan, or at least plaid, and probably has pleats in the back.

[Me cousin Jack]

You can wear a kilt and call it a skirt, but you’ll find it difficult to wear a skirt and call it a kilt.

Just spit ballin’ here