noun
henchman
HEHNCH-muhn
noun
1
A loyal follower or subordinate who carries out orders, often without question — frequently used of a villain's or gang leader's helpers.
"The cartoon villain sent his henchmen to steal the diamond."
"The senator was accused of using party henchmen to silence his critics."
How to Use Henchman
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA loyal but often unscrupulous right-hand man who does the dirty work for a boss, villain, or powerful figure.
When to use it
Usually carries a negative or menacing tone, especially in stories about crime or corrupt power.
Common pairings
loyal henchman
hired henchmen
Word Forms
henchmen plural
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Etymology
From Old English roots meaning "horseman" or "groom" — a henchman originally led a nobleman's horse before the word shifted to mean a trusted attendant, and later a criminal's enforcer.