Haunch/hɔːntʃ/ Definition 1 of 2Pro Tip 1/3Animal Posture Often used to describe the way animals sit or stand, expressing alertness or fear. The rabbit sat on its haunches, watching us carefully. Pro Tip 2/3Human Anatomy Relates to human body too, not just animals; refers to hip and thigh area. The athlete grabbed his haunch after pulling a muscle. Pro Tip 3/3Physical Position Used metaphorically to describe someone in a crouching or ready position. He lowered on his haunches, ready to pounce.