fanny

[ fan-ee ]

noun

, Informal.

, plural fan·nies.

1. the buttocks.

fanny

/ ˈfænɪ /

noun

1. taboo.
   the female genitals
2. the buttocks

Usage

Despite the theory that this word derives from the name `Fanny', its use in British English is still considered taboo by many people, and is likely to cause offence. In the US the word refers to the buttocks. Serious misunderstanding may therefore arise when what people in Britain know as a `bumbag' is referred to in the US as a `fanny pack'

Word History and Origins

Origin of fanny¹

1925–30; of obscure origin; relation, if any, to British fanny “vulva” (vulgar) is unclear

Word History and Origins

Origin of fanny¹

C20: perhaps from Fanny , pet name from Frances

Example Sentences

After that, she pulled a .25 caliber automatic handgun out of, he thinks, a fanny pack, and shot him in the other leg, Malizia said.

From Seattle Times

I sling my backpack over my shoulder as we hurry out, but just as we do, JP strolls into my backyard, wearing a fanny pack and a red “Vacation Bible School” T-shirt.

From Literature

A shop in the downtown neighborhood famed for selling Carnival attire completely reinvented itself, stocking its shelves with Madonna-themed costumes, fans, fanny packs and even underwear.

From Seattle Times

Indeed, consider the possibility that the hyper-wealthy, ensconced in a world of luxury and privilege, might actually be more racist than the fanny pack crowd sitting in the cheap seats at a Trump rally.

From Salon

The Kennedy crowd does seem to veer younger, suggesting part of it is they don't want to be associated with the embarrassing fanny pack Boomer crowds that fill up Trump rallies.

From Salon

Related Words

• ass
• posterior