Definition
A subordinate or servant, often used to describe someone who unquestioningly carries out orders or acts as a loyal supporter to a more powerful individual.
Pronunciation
US English
UK English
Part of Speech
Noun.
Synonyms
follower, underling, lackey, henchman, flunky, subordinate, servant, assistant, devotee.
Antonyms
Leader, boss, master, superior.
Word Forms
| Part of Speech | Words |
|---|---|
| Noun | minions, minion |
| Verb | None |
| Adjective | None |
| Adverb | None |
Example Sentences
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He was just a minion, but he carried out his tasks with great efficiency and loyalty to his boss.
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The CEO had a team of dedicated minions who worked tirelessly to ensure the success of their company.
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The evil villain had a group of loyal minions who would do anything he asked, even if it meant breaking the law.
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The king’s minions were always at his beck and call, ready to carry out his orders without question.
Usage
The word minion can be used in a variety of ways to refer to someone who is subservient or subordinate to a more powerful individual or group. The word itself comes from the Middle French word ‘mignon’, which means “darling” or “favorite,” and was originally used to describe a favorite or beloved person. Over time, the meaning of the word shifted to reflect its current use as a term for a subordinate or servant.
The word minion can be used on its own to refer to a specific individual who is a loyal follower or assistant, often used in a negative sense. For example, in a corporate setting, someone might be referred to as a “minion” if they are seen as blindly following orders without questioning their superiors. This connotation of the word is often used to suggest that the person in question lacks original thought or agency.
Minion can also be used in a more general sense to refer to a group of people who are subservient to a more powerful individual or group. For instance, one might describe the minions of a political leader as those who are tasked with carrying out their agenda or advancing their interests.
The word minion can also be used in different variations, such as “minionette” to describe a female subordinate, or “minionry” to refer to the collective of individuals who serve a particular person or group. The prefix “sub” can also be added to form the word “subminion,” which emphasizes the subordinate nature of the individual in question. The suffix “-ize” can also be added to create the verb “minionize,” which means to subordinate or to make someone a minion of a more powerful person or group.