Buskin
Buskin ({not transcribed}) , noun
[Probably from Old French brossequin, or Dutch broosken. See Brodekin.]
1.
A strong, protecting covering for the foot, coming some distance up the leg.
The hunted red deer's undressed hide
Their hairy buskins well supplied.
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.
Great Fletcher never treads in buskins here,
No greater Jonson dares in socks appear.