thigh

[ thahy ]

noun

1. the part of the lower limb in humans between the hip and the knee.
2. the corresponding part of the hind limb of other animals; the femoral region.
3. (in birds)
   1. the true femoral region that is hidden by the skin or feathers of the body.
   2. the segment below, containing the fibula and tibia.
4. Entomology. the femur.

thigh

/ θaɪ /

noun

1. the part of the leg between the hip and the knee in man
2. the corresponding part in other vertebrates and insects

Word History and Origins

Origin of thigh¹

before 900; Middle English thi, thigh ( e ), the ( h ), Old English thīoh, thēoh; cognate with Dutch dij, Old High German dioh, Old Norse thjō

Word History and Origins

Origin of thigh¹

Old English thēh; related to Old Frisian thiāch, Old High German dioh thigh, Old Norse thjō buttock, Old Slavonic tyku fat

Example Sentences

She told MPs that this included a “foetal skeleton posed under a glass dome, a human thigh bone turned into a cane, a human jawbone necklace and the varnished skull of a six-year-old”.

From BBC

The statement went on to say that no weapons were alleged to be involved, but the victim reported a contusion to their right thigh.

From Los Angeles Times

The pain is worst in her thigh, where she had a metal rod inserted after cancer rotted her femur.

From BBC

There’s so much character in the stray paint strokes, the blackened thighs.

From Los Angeles Times

Coffey admitted in court that he supplied the girl with rum and touched her inner thigh and breasts, according to the Department of Justice.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• femur
• groin