Definition
A henchman is a loyal and trusted follower, often hired or employed by a powerful or criminal figure to carry out unpleasant or dangerous tasks.
Pronunciation
US English
UK English
Part of Speech
Noun
Synonyms
follower, assistant, minion, lackey, underling, subordinate, cohort, goon, yes-man, hanger-on.
Antonyms
Leader, boss, superior, manager, independent, individual, mastermind, originator.
Word Forms
| Part of Speech | Words |
|---|---|
| Noun | henchman, henchmen |
| Verb | None |
| Adjective | None |
| Adverb | None |
Example Sentences
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The evil dictator always had a group of henchmen who carried out his orders without question or hesitation.
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The drug lord’s henchmen were notorious for their ruthlessness and willingness to commit violent acts in his name.
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Despite being just a henchman, he had dreams of one day taking over the criminal enterprise for himself.
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The wealthy businessman’s henchman was tasked with keeping an eye on the new employees to ensure they were working efficiently.
Usage
The word “henchman” is most commonly used to describe a follower or assistant of a powerful or criminal figure, but it can also be used more broadly to refer to any loyal and trusted subordinate. The term has a somewhat negative connotation, often implying blind obedience or a willingness to carry out unsavory tasks without question.
However, despite its negative associations, the word “henchman” is often used in a variety of contexts, both in popular culture and in everyday speech. In literature and film, for example, it is common to see villains accompanied by a group of henchmen who carry out their dirty work. Similarly, in the corporate world, managers may employ henchmen or women to do their bidding or to keep an eye on subordinates.
The word “henchman” can also be modified by various prefixes or suffixes to convey different shades of meaning. For example, the prefix “un-” might be added to “henchman” to describe someone who has turned against their former boss or master. Similarly, the suffix “-ish” might be added to describe someone who is only vaguely or tentatively aligned with a more powerful figure.
Overall, the word “henchman” is a versatile and commonly used term that has a number of connotations and shades of meaning. Whether you are writing fiction or navigating the corporate world, an understanding of this term and its many variations can be helpful in communicating clearly and effectively.