buskin

from WordNet (r) 3.0 (2006)

buskin
    n 1: a boot reaching halfway up to the knee [syn: {buskin},
         {combat boot}, {desert boot}, {half boot}, {top boot}]

from The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48

Buskin \Bus"kin\, n. [Prob. from OF. brossequin, or D. broosken.
   See {Brodekin}.]
   1. A strong, protecting covering for the foot, coming some
      distance up the leg.
      [1913 Webster]

            The hunted red deer's undressed hide
            Their hairy buskins well supplied.    --Sir W.
                                                  Scott.
      [1913 Webster]

   2. A similar covering for the foot and leg, made with very
      thick soles, to give an appearance of elevation to the
      stature; -- worn by tragic actors in ancient Greece and
      Rome. Used as a symbol of tragedy, or the tragic drama, as
      distinguished from comedy.
      [1913 Webster]

            Great Fletcher never treads in buskins here,
            No greater Jonson dares in socks appear. --Dryden.
      [1913 Webster]