noun
henchman
HENCH-mun/ˈhentʃmən/
A loyal follower who helps a powerful person, especially in wrongdoing.
The seated boss directs her henchman to seize the valuables.
Etymology
The earlier hengestman meant a groom or nobleman’s attendant and probably combined words for “horse” and “man.” The attendant sense later became that of an obedient, sometimes unscrupulous follower.
In context
a henchman pointed at him and threatened kid kneel down right now if you don't want to die
More examples
- His henchmen carried out the corrupt official’s orders.
- The story’s loyal henchman never questions the leader’s plans.
- Investigators arrested the boss and two henchmen.
Forms
henchman · henchmen
Similar words
- accomplice
- An accomplice shares wrongdoing; a henchman is subordinate to a powerful leader.
- underling
- An underling is any subordinate; henchman suggests loyal service, often in unsavory tasks.