noun
heavy
A villain or intimidating opponent.
The actor plays the heavy in the new crime drama.
Etymology
The theatrical noun grew from heavy roles carrying serious or formidable force. It specialized to the villain or intimidating opponent, then extended beyond the stage.
More examples
- The villain sent two heavies to intimidate the witness.
- He built a career playing memorable heavies.
- The story's heavy appears only in the final chapter.
Forms
heavy · heavies · heavier · heaviest
Similar words
- villain
- A morally bad character rather than any intimidating opponent.
- enforcer
- Someone who uses intimidation to carry out another’s demands.