The hip, buttock, and upper thigh in animals and humans. The horse's haunches were powerful and well-muscled, allowing it to run swiftly.
A hindquarter of an animal, especially when used as meat. The chef prepared a delicious roast haunch of venison for the dinner party.
The part of an arch, beam, or bridge between the springing and the crown where bending moments are greatest. Additional steel was added in the haunch of the concrete arch for extra strength.