# hunchback

/ˈhəntʃˌbæk/ (US) · /hˈʌntʃbæk/ (UK) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/hunchback
Updated: 2026-06-18

## Definition

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.

For teachers: 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.

## Examples

- The old man was known in the village as the hunchback.
- In many classic fairy tales, the hunchback is portrayed as a misunderstood figure living on the outskirts of the village.
- 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.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.