Why is going without underwear called “going commando”?
Wikipedia: Possibly from the much earlier term “going regimental”, which refers to wearing the kilt military style, or without underwear (also see True Scotsman). “True Scotsman” is a humorous term used in Scotland for a man wearing a kilt without undergarments. Though the tradition originated in the military, it has entered Scottish lore as a rite, an expression of light-hearted curiosity about the custom, even as a subversive gesture. 😀 The origins of the phrase are uncertain, with some speculating that it may refer to being “out in the open” or “ready for action.” According to Engber many soldiers do go without underwear to “increase ventilation and reduce moisture.” The earliest known use of the term in print is January 22, 1985 when Jim Spencer wrote in the Chicago Tribune: “Furthermore, colored briefs are ‘sleazy’ and going without underwear (‘going commando’, as they say on campus) is simply gross”.
