Haunches

/ˈhɔːntʃɪz/ noun

Definition

Plural of haunch; multiple hip and upper leg regions, or a sitting position on one's heels with knees bent.

Etymology

Plural form of 'haunch,' formed by adding '-es.' The phrase 'on one's haunches' became a common idiom meaning to sit in a crouched position.

Kelly Says

'On one's haunches' is a vivid image used across languages—it describes that uniquely animal way of sitting that humans share with apes and other primates, reminding us of our evolutionary closeness.

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