# thug

/ˈθəɡ/ (US) · /θˈʌɡ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/thug
Updated: 2026-05-06

## Definition

a violent person, especially a criminal who treats others roughly. You use this word for someone who uses physical force to get what they want.

For teachers: a violent person, typically a criminal or a member of a gang. Often carries a connotation of physical intimidation or brutality.

## Examples

- The shopkeeper was attacked by a local thug.
- The politician hired a group of thugs to intimidate his rivals and disrupt their campaign events.
- While the film attempts to humanize the protagonist, he remains a common thug whose primary method of negotiation is the threat of physical violence.

## Usage notes

- Often used as a pejorative to describe someone perceived as low-class or violent.

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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.