The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook by BETTER WORDS R. B. Skinner

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thug

noun

/θʌg/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of thug

An individual who engages in violent and criminal behavior, often as a member of an organized gang or criminal network.
"The shopkeeper was attacked by a thug demanding money from the cash register."

Detailed meaning of thug

A thug is typically associated with aggressive and unlawful actions, displaying a disregard for the well-being and rights of others. They may participate in activities such as robbery, assault, extortion, drug trafficking, or other illicit endeavors. The term "thug" carries a negative connotation, describing a person who uses intimidation, coercion, or physical force to achieve their objectives. Thugs are commonly driven by personal gain, power, or a desire to exert control over others. The term can also be used more broadly to describe individuals who display violent or intimidating behavior, even if they are not involved in organized crime. Overall, the noun "thug" refers to an individual who is associated with criminal activities and exhibits a pattern of aggressive and antisocial behavior.

Example sentences containing thug

1. The gang of thugs terrorized the neighborhood, instilling fear in the residents.
2. The nightclub bouncer swiftly dealt with the rowdy thugs causing trouble at the entrance.
3. The police apprehended the group of thugs responsible for the series of burglaries.
4. The victim bravely stood up to the thug, refusing to be intimidated.
5. The documentary shed light on the inner workings of organized crime and the lives of thugs.
6. The thug brandished a knife, threatening anyone who dared to oppose him.

History and etymology of thug

The noun 'thug' has an etymology that traces back to India during the 19th century. It is believed to have originated from the Hindi word 'ṭhag,' which referred to a member of a secret and criminal organization known for engaging in robbery, violence, and murder. This term was later adopted into British English during the colonial period when the British encountered and sought to suppress such criminal groups in India. Over time, 'thug' came to describe any individual who engages in violent and criminal behavior, often as a member of an organized gang or criminal network. The etymology of 'thug' underscores the historical association with organized criminal activities and the complex cultural and linguistic influences that have shaped its meaning and usage.

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Further usage examples of thug

1. The city implemented stricter measures to combat the growing presence of thugs in certain neighborhoods.
2. The witness identified the thug in the police lineup, leading to his arrest.
3. The thug's extensive criminal record revealed a long history of violence and illegal activities.
4. The community rallied together to denounce the actions of the thugs and promote safety.
5. The victim received support and protection from local authorities after testifying against the thug in court.
6. The city's streets were plagued by the presence of ruthless thugs.
7. The community rallied against the local thug who terrorized them.
8. The police arrested the notorious thug behind the recent crimes.
9. The gang leader was a cunning and dangerous thug.
10. A group of thugs looted the convenience store during the chaos.
11. She narrowly escaped an encounter with a street thug.
12. The undercover cop infiltrated the thug's criminal organization.
13. The neighborhood lived in fear of the violent street thugs.
14. The thug's reputation for brutality was widely known.
15. The bar brawl was instigated by a drunken thug.
16. The brave citizen confronted the purse-snatching thug.
17. The courtroom was filled with witnesses testifying against the thug.
18. The detective tracked down the elusive thug responsible.
19. The thug's criminal empire extended across the city.
20. The community demanded action against the drug-dealing thugs.
21. The mob boss was a calculating and ruthless thug.
22. The police crackdown targeted the city's most wanted thugs.
23. The vigilante vowed to take down the corrupt politicians and thugs.
24. The thug's reign of terror finally came to an end with his arrest.
25. The victim positively identified her attacker as one of the thugs.