An Etymological Dictionary of the German Language/Schenkel

by Friedrich Kluge

Schenkel, m., ‘thigh, shank,’ from the equiv. MidHG. schęnkel, m.; comp. Du. schenkel; unknown to OHG. as well as to the other OTeut. dials. A dimin. of AS. sčę́onca (see schenken), E. shank, which is further connected with ModHG. Schinken; comp. also Du. schonk, ‘bones in meat,’ Swed. skånk, Dan. skank.