Thug/θʌɡ/ Definition 1 of 2Pro Tip 1/3Negative Connotation The word 'thug' generally implies bad behavior and is not a compliment. He was feared by all for being a notorious thug. Pro Tip 2/3Media Influence 'Thug' is often used in news and media to describe criminals or violent protestors. The protest turned violent when thugs started looting shops. Pro Tip 3/3Colloquial Usage Used informally, 'thug' can describe someone who is tough or rough around the edges. Despite his thug appearance, he was quite gentle.