groin

American  

[groin] / grɔɪn /

noun

1. Anatomy. the fold or hollow on either side of the front of the body where the thigh joins the abdomen.

2. the general region of this fold or hollow.

3. Architecture. the curved line or edge formed by the intersection of two vaults.

4. Also groyne a small jetty extending from a shore to prevent beach erosion.

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verb (used with object)

1. Architecture. to form with groins.

groin British  

/ ɡrɔɪn /

noun

1. the depression or fold where the legs join the abdomen

2. euphemistic the genitals, esp the testicles

3. a variant spelling (esp US) of groyne

4. architect a curved arris formed where two intersecting vaults meet

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verb

1. (tr) architect to provide or construct with groins

Other Word Forms

• ungroined adjective

Etymology

Origin of groin

1350–1400; earlier grine, Middle English grinde; compare Old English grynde “abyss,” akin to grund “bottom, ground ¹ ”

Example Sentences

Wallick wears a helmet and a cup when he goes water skiing, after once taking a hit to the groin that knocked him off his skis.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 8, 2026

The 23-year-old has returned to the England fold for the first time since last summer having missed the September, October and November camps because of a groin injury.

From BBC • Mar. 26, 2026

The point guard was named the Big 12’s most improved player and is coming back from a groin injury he suffered last Thursday against Iowa State.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 16, 2026

The forward began struggling with a painful, recurring groin issue at the end of last season.

From BBC • Mar. 3, 2026

This one made a brown streak against the stones, while Joffrey's hurried shot almost took Ser Preston in the groin.

From "A Clash of Kings" by George R.R. Martin