Hunchback

/ˈhʌntʃˌbæk/ noun

Definition

a person with an abnormal curvature of the spine that makes their back rounded and humped in appearance.

Etymology

From 'hunch' (Middle English, possibly from humped) + 'back' (Old English 'bæc'). Compound describing the physical condition.

Kelly Says

Victor Hugo's 'The Hunchback of Notre-Dame' (1831) popularized sympathy for this condition, essentially revolutionizing how society viewed people with disabilities by making readers empathize with the protagonist!

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.