ENGLISH
REFERENCE

hunchback

n. countable
C2 Proficiency US //ˈhəntʃˌbæk// UK //hˈʌntʃbæk// hunch·back Vulgar
Definition

n. a person who has a very curved back. This word is often used in stories to describe someone who looks different from others, but it can be seen as rude or unkind in real life.

n. a person with a pronounced curvature of the spine, typically resulting in a hunched posture. Often carries a derogatory or literary connotation, especially when used to describe fictional characters.


SIMPLE

The old man was known in the village as the hunchback.

CONTEXTUAL

In many classic fairy tales, the hunchback is portrayed as a misunderstood figure living on the outskirts of the village.

COMPLEX

The author's use of the hunchback as a central character serves to highlight the social isolation and physical prejudice faced by those who deviate from the community's aesthetic standards.

Origin

Back-formation from hunchbacked.

© 2026 English Reference