fanny

[ fan-ee ]

noun

, Informal.

, plural fan·nies.

1. the buttocks.

fanny

/ ˈfænɪ /

noun

1. taboo.
   the female genitals
2. the buttocks

Usage

Despite the theory that this word derives from the name `Fanny', its use in British English is still considered taboo by many people, and is likely to cause offence. In the US the word refers to the buttocks. Serious misunderstanding may therefore arise when what people in Britain know as a `bumbag' is referred to in the US as a `fanny pack'

Word History and Origins

Origin of fanny¹

1925–30; of obscure origin; relation, if any, to British fanny “vulva” (vulgar) is unclear

Word History and Origins

Origin of fanny¹

C20: perhaps from Fanny , pet name from Frances

Example Sentences

If you don’t want to buy an expensive bike bag, just start with a fanny pack.

From Outside Online

Now Nicki and her crew are rocking short shorts, kicks, and fanny packs.

From The Daily Beast

One of the first, Fanny Bullock Workman, was the daughter of a Massachusetts governor.

From The Daily Beast

We learn that Rachel is a finalist for the part of Fanny Brice in the revival of Funny Girl.

From The Daily Beast

And just in case she gets stuck up there, she has a garter belt–fanny pack around her thigh to keep a phone in and call for help.

From The Daily Beast

I know lots of people who jog with water bottles affixed to a fanny pack.

From The Daily Beast

As it was intended on their arrival to send Lydia and the elder boys to school, Fanny now took leave of her friends for good.

From Project Gutenberg

Fanny Drbach had been specially trained as a teacher, and had already had some experience in her work.

From Project Gutenberg

Ma chre M-elle Fanny,—Je vous prie beaucoup de me pardonner que je ne vous ai ecrit si longtemps.

From Project Gutenberg

His mother was soon able to report to Fanny that Pierre is behaving better and learns willingly with his new teacher.

From Project Gutenberg

When Fanny visited his room she found him wide awake, sitting up in bed with bright, feverish eyes, and crying to himself.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• ass
• posterior