First Known Use: 13th century
Dictionary
haunch
noun \ˈhȯnch, ˈhänch\
: the upper part of a person's or animal's leg; especially : the upper part of an animal's rear leg used as meat
Full Definition of HAUNCH
1
a : hip 1a b : hindquarter 2 —usually used in plural
2
: hindquarter 1
3
: either side of an arch between the springing and the crown
— on one's haunches
: in a squatting position
See haunch defined for English-language learners
See haunch defined for kids
ADVERTISEMENT
Origin of HAUNCH
Middle English haunche, from Anglo-French hanche, haunche, of Germanic origin; akin to Middle Dutch hanke haunch
HAUNCHES Defined for Kids
haunch
noun \ˈhȯnch\
Definition of HAUNCH for Kids
1
: hindquarter <The dog sat on its haunches.>
2
: the upper part of a person's thigh together with the back part of the hip
Learn More About HAUNCH
Browse
Next Word in the Dictionary: haunch bonePrevious Word in the Dictionary: HaumeaAll Words Near: haunch
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up haunch? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).