Haunchy

/ˈhɔːntʃi/ adjective

Definition

Having prominent haunches; characterized by strong hips and hindquarters, or suggestive of a crouching position.

Etymology

Formed by adding the adjective-forming suffix '-y' to 'haunch,' similar to how 'stingy' comes from 'sting.' The suffix '-y' is incredibly productive in English for turning nouns into descriptive adjectives.

Kelly Says

Adjectives ending in '-y' often feel informal or descriptive rather than technical—'haunchy' sounds more conversational than the formal 'haunched,' showing how suffix choice affects tone.

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