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creeper
DCHP-1 (pre-1967)
Entry from the DCHP-1 (pre-1967)
This entry may contain outdated or offensive information, terms, and examples.
n.
one of a pair of metal bands or plates equipped with caulks (def. 1) or spikes and attached to boots or overshoes for walking on icy surfaces.
Quotations
<i>a</i>1820
I saw an old gentleman carefully picking his way across a steep street with creepers (spikes made to buckle under the sole) on his feet and a pointed walking stick in his hand. . . .
1861
We generally wear what on the coast are called "creepers," which are made in the shape of a cross with thick "starts," and which are much the same as cricketers wear in England.
1950
The climb became too rough and steep for snowshoes so we exchanged them for creepers, made of light steel bands with sharp prongs under the ball of the foot.
1955
He would go out walking on Montreal's uneven sidewalks . . . with his feet spiked with "creepers," which reminded him of the "crampons" used in Switzerland for crossing the glaciers.