(cothurnus), an ancient kind of boot, which covered the foot, and half of the leg, or even more. Buskins were laced in front so as closely to embrace the leg, and were sometimes ornamented in a very elaborate style. They were chiefly worn by hunters, horsemen, and persons of rank. The cothurnus used in Athenian tragedy had a sole of great thickness for the purpose of increasing the apparent stature of the wearer. In classic authors the word is frequently used as synonymous with tragedy; and it was likewise used to indicate an elevated style in poetry and in painting. See COPTHURNUS.