The Meaning & Origins of “Thunder Thighs”

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Understanding this slang idiom & if it’s polite

Co-authored by Devin McSween Reviewed by Monica Morris

Last Updated: August 1, 2025 Fact Checked

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• “Thunder Thighs” Meaning
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• Is “thunder thighs” a compliment?
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• The Origins of “Thunder Thighs”
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• Q&A

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“Thunder thighs” is an English slang idiom that means someone has large or muscular thighs. This phrase is generally considered offensive and rude, though some people see it as a compliment. In this article, we’ll tell you what “thunder thighs” means, whether it’s polite, when it’s safe to use, and where this slang term comes from. Read on to learn more!

“Thunder Thighs” Definition

“Thunder thighs” is an unflattering slang term that refers to someone having thick or muscular thighs. It comes from the idea that large thighs make loud noises when they touch, just like thunder. “Thunder thighs” is generally considered an insult, so avoid saying it even if you mean it as a compliment.

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Section 1 of 3:

What does “thunder thighs” mean?

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1. 
   “Thunder thighs” is a rude way to say that someone has large thighs. “Thunder thighs” is an English idiom that refers to someone who is thought to have fat, thick, or muscular thighs. It is generally seen as an insult or an unflattering term that is used to mock people with large thighs.

   • In general, “thunder thighs” is used more often to describe women than men.
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Section 2 of 3:

Is “thunder thighs” a compliment?

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1. 
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   Saying that someone has “thunder thighs” is considered impolite. “Thunder thighs” is generally seen as a rude or offensive term to describe someone’s body. Avoid telling a friend, partner, family member, acquaintance, or stranger that they have “thunder thighs,” as this can hurt their feelings and make them feel insecure or ashamed of their body.

   • It’s common for people to worry about their appearance and feel pressured to conform to society’s “ideal” body standards. Being teased about their body or hearing that they have “thunder thighs” can cause them to develop a negative body image and low self-esteem.
   • It can feel hurtful when someone comments on your body. To feel better about your body, recognize all the things it allows you to do. If you catch yourself thinking negatively about your body, replace the thoughts with neutral or positive ones, like “I am thankful for my body,” or “My body is strong and beautiful.”
   • When someone negatively comments on your body, take a deep breath and tell them how their words make you feel. For instance, tell them, “I don’t appreciate your comment. My body is none of your business.”
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   Some people see “thunder thighs” as a compliment. There’s nothing wrong with having large thighs, as there’s no right or wrong way to have a body. Lots of people find large thighs beautiful and strong, so they see “thunder thighs” as a compliment that celebrates people of all shapes and sizes.<re>https://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=Thunderthighs</ref>

   • Many people who have large thighs are proud and in love with their bodies. Some people want thicker thighs or are attracted to people with large thighs.
   • Even if you see “thunder thighs” as a compliment, most people still consider it an insult. Avoid telling someone they have “thunder thighs” unless they proudly comment on them.
   • In general, it’s best to avoid commenting on someone’s appearance, as they might be sensitive about their body. If you’re unsure whether it’s okay to compliment their looks, compliment their personality or skills instead.
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Section 3 of 3:

The Origins of “Thunder Thighs”

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1. 
   “Thunder thighs” refers to the idea that large thighs sound like thunder. Thunder is well known for the loud, booming sounds it makes after lightning strikes. Some people believe that large thighs also make loud, booming sounds when they clap or rub together. So, people call large thighs “thunder thighs” due to the thunder-like noises they are believed to make.

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  You cannot lose weight overnight, but significant progress can be made within a month. To achieve this, focus on dietary changes by eliminating processed foods, sugary drinks, and excessive sweets, and instead emphasize whole foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Incorporate a balanced exercise routine that includes both strength training (such as squats, lunges, and glute-focused exercises) and cardiovascular activity. Remember that real changes take time, often becoming noticeable in 4-6 weeks, so consistency and patience are key. You might also find How to Lose Weight Fast helpful.

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Tips

• If you want to get thinner thighs, do 30 minutes of cardio exercises, 5 days a week. Tone up your thighs with exercises like squats, lunges, and leg lifts, too.
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• If you want to strengthen your legs and get larger thighs, exercise your thighs. Do squats, lunges, deadlifts, and leg presses to build up your thigh muscles.
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