enforcer

noun

en·​forc·​er in-ˈfȯr-sər How to pronounce enforcer (audio)
en-
1
: one that enforces
2
a
: a violent criminal employed by a crime syndicate
especially : hit man sense 1
b
: a player (as in ice hockey) known for rough play and fighting

Examples of enforcer in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
President Trump’s war on reproductive health now has an enforcer. Katherine Hartley, New York Daily News, 14 Feb. 2025 Editor’s picks Because once upon a time, Marvin worked for his sibling as an enforcer, and had no problem beating the crap out of and/or putting a bullet into anyone who crossed the boss’s path. David Fear, Rolling Stone, 6 Feb. 2025 Ray was an enforcer and defender who split the center position with shot-blocker George Johnson and a catalyst for an out-of-nowhere NBA title in 1975. Jerry McDonald, The Mercury News, 6 Feb. 2025 Moments after Attorney General Merrick Garland delivered a farewell address to his staff, Kristen Clarke returned to her office in the Justice Department to reflect on her own legacy as the nation’s top civil rights enforcer. N'dea Yancey-Bragg, USA TODAY, 18 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for enforcer 

Word History

First Known Use

1580, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of enforcer was in 1580

Dictionary Entries Near enforcer

Cite this Entry

“Enforcer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/enforcer. Accessed 21 Feb. 2025.

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