Hench

Hench (adjective / UK Slang)

(Also heard as: Well hench, Hench lad, Getting hench)

Definition:

Hench is British slang for muscular, strong and well built. It is used for someone who works out, such as a gym-goer, a bouncer or a rugby player. “He is well hench” means he has serious muscle. It is mostly a compliment.

Where Hench Comes From:

The word is a back-formation from “henchman”, meaning a loyal and strong follower, often of a villain. It was used in UK street and gym slang in the 2000s and 2010s, spreading through grime and gym culture, and is now widely understood.

How People Actually Use Hench:

Gym friends say “you are getting hench” as praise. “Hench” can also describe someone who looks intimidating. It is especially common among young men in the UK, and is used with admiration or jokes.

Is Hench Offensive?

No. It is usually positive, though comments about people’s bodies can make some feel uncomfortable.

Examples in the Wild:

• “Mate, you have got so hench since last year.”

  Meaning: You have clearly built a lot of muscle.

• “The bouncer on the door was well hench.”

  Meaning: He was big and strong.

• “Gym five days a week, trying to get hench.”

  Meaning: I am trying to build muscle.

Similar Slang:

Buff, Mogged, Mewing, Looksmaxxing, Roadman, Mandem

🛍 Shop on eBay › (affiliate)