Definition of thong

The word "thong" has its origins in ancient languages. In Old English, the word "þong" referred to a strap or a thong of leather. This sense of the word can still be seen in modern English, where a thong is a type of strap or belt. The word "thong" is also related to the Greek word "θύγω" (thūgō), which means "to gird" or "to strap". This Greek word is derived from the Proto-Indo-European root "*tew-", which meant "to bind" or "to fasten". In the 15th century, the word "thong" took on a new meaning, referring to a strip of leather or a strap used to fasten a sandal or a slipper. This sense of the word is where the modern slang term "thong" comes from, referring to a type of underwear that exposes the buttocks.