Meaning & Definition of word "Hunchback"
Hunchback
/ˈhʌnʧ.bæk/
noun:
- 1. A person with a hunchback; specifically, one whose back is curved due to abnormal spinal development or a medical condition.
- Example: The hunchback of Notre-Dame is a famous character in Victor Hugo's novel.
- 2. A person whose back is humped or bent.
- Example: He was often teased as a child for being a hunchback.
- 3. A term sometimes used derogatorily to describe someone with a significant physical deformity related to the back.
- Example: The village folk referred to him as the hunchback, unaware of the kind heart he possessed.
Etymology
●The word 'hunchback' comes from 'hunch', meaning a bump or hump, combined with 'back'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
hunchback of Notre-Dame:
Referring to the fictional character Quasimodo from Victor Hugo's novel.
Related Words
kyphosis:
A medical condition characterized by an excessive curvature of the spine.
hunch:
A bend or curve, especially of the back.
spinal deformity:
An abnormal shape or curve in the spine.
Slang Meanings of hunchback
Meaning: Hunchback
● Example Sentence: He's a real-life hunchback, but he's got a great personality.
Meaning: Humpback
● Example Sentence: In his school, they called him 'Humpback' because of his posture.