thug

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

But as long as Mr. Cabello remains the thug behind the throne, any such change would be cosmetic.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 25, 2026

"Never in your life label me a thug again. Never label me a wannabe gangster," he said.

From BBC • Nov. 27, 2025

Before long, he had booked roles as a Greek god in “Clash of the Titans,” a thug in Ridley Scott’s “Robin Hood” and lovestruck farmer Andy in Stephen Frears’ “Tamara Drewe.”

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 7, 2024

"But the idea to pay her thug money to try to help protect her this and that, for what?" he added.

From Salon • Feb. 1, 2024

Synonyms: thug, delinquent, hooligan, low-life, gangster, and, according to Long, Brianna.

From "On the Come Up" by Angie Thomas