What is the meaning of the phrase ‘Thunder thighs’?
Large, thick, fat or muscular thighs. (Or someone who has large thighs.)
What is the origin of the phrase ‘Thunder thighs’?
‘Thunder thighs’ is a relatively recent phrase that came into common at least as recently as 1991. The precise origin of the phrase has yet to be determined, however.
That said, it is widely thought that the phrase is derived from the idea that a person with thunder thighs makes a loud sound, like thunder, when they walk. Or that their large thighs make thunderous noises when they slap against each other when walking.
There are also those who say that it could be derived from the arcade game Street Fighter, where one of the characters, namely Chun Li, who was known for her high lightning speed kicks using her thick thighs. Again, this is not definitive however, and only represents one of several possible influences leading to common usage of the term.
The term came into more frequent use in the year 2001 with the release of the film Shallow Hal, when the male character Hal, played by the actor Jack Black, mocks and insults a heavy-set female character by pointing out her ‘Thunder thighs’.
Incidentally, this film is, in a manner of speaking, a fable about how people should be appreciated for their inner beauty, in terms of their compassion and kindness to others, rather than for their more superficial features.
What are some notable uses of the phrase ‘Thunder thighs’?
While the phrase ‘Thunder thighs’ has mostly been used as an insult, the term has also been picked up by those wanting to promote a more body positive attitude in others.
For example, the American supermodel Tyra Banks has said that terms like “thunder thighs” previously used to shame women, should now be embraced as a sign of strength and beauty. Similarly, the plus-size model Ashley Graham has spoken about reclaiming the term to challenge society’s standards of beauty.
The tennis superstar Serena Williams has been referred to as having “thunder thighs” in sports commentary. While sometimes used to emphasise her powerful physique, it has also sparked discussions about the objectification and scrutiny of female athletes’ bodies.
There are also health and fitness books that use the term, and you will often find the term used in various ways on social media platforms.
