The phrase "thug life" refers to a lifestyle or attitude that is characterized by embracing rebellion, toughness, and often engaging in illegal or aggressive behavior. It is popularized in hip-hop culture and often represents a sense of pride in one's struggles and overcoming challenges through a defiant, streetwise mentality.
The term "thug" originally comes from the Hindi word "thug," which means "deceiver" or "swindler." It was used in colonial India to describe a group of organized criminals known for robbing and murdering travelers. The phrase "thug life" became popularized in the 1990s through hip-hop culture, particularly by rapper Tupac Shakur.