Thug was the name given by the British in India in the 19th century to a member of a band of thieves and murderers. A thug would pretend to be friendly with a traveler and offer to share a …

Apr 30, 2015 · NPR's Melissa Block speaks to John McWhorter, associate professor of English and comparative literature at Columbia University, about the use of the word "thug" to describe …

Look up thug in Wiktionary, the free dictionary.

Thug definition: a violent, lawless, or vicious person, especially one who commits a crime such as assault, robbery, or murder.. See examples of THUG used in a sentence.

THUG definition: 1. a man who acts violently, especially to commit a crime: 2. a man who acts violently, especially…. Learn more.

A thug is a bad guy or a bully, especially a violent one. A thug might break into someone's house, push its owners around, and steal their TV.

Definition of thug noun in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

If you refer to someone as a thug, you think they are violent or a criminal. 2 meanings: 1. a tough and violent man, esp a criminal 2. (formerly) a member of an organization of robbers and …

Aug 21, 2024 · Originally associated with violent behavior, it has transformed into a more nuanced label in contemporary slang, often reflecting cultural identity, defiance, and street credibility. …

Nov 1, 2025 · thug (plural thugs) A person who is a member of a gang or criminal organization. A violent, aggressive, or truculent person. quotations