henchman
3 synonyms for henchman, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A loyal follower or subordinate who carries out orders, often without question — frequently used of a villain's or gang leader's helpers.
Synonyms
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
collaborator
partner in crime
How to use henchman
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
loyal henchman
hired henchmen
Usually carries a negative or menacing tone, especially in stories about crime or corrupt power.
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.
Full origin of henchman →Frequently asked questions
What does “henchman” mean?
The word “henchman” means a loyal follower or subordinate who carries out orders, often without question — frequently used of a villain's or gang leader's helpers. In plain terms, a loyal but often unscrupulous right-hand man who does the dirty work for a boss, villain, or powerful figure.
How do you pronounce “henchman”?
“Henchman” is pronounced HEHNCH-muhn (/ˈhɛnt͡ʃ.mən/ in IPA).
How do you use “henchman” in a sentence?
Here is “henchman” used in a sentence: “The cartoon villain sent his henchmen to steal the diamond.”
What part of speech is “henchman”?
“Henchman” is a noun.
Where does the word “henchman” come from?
The word “henchman” comes from Old English. 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.
