Enforcer: meaning, definitions and examples

This term is often used to describe someone who ensures rules or laws are followed, usually by using force or authority. It can have a negative connotation if it implies heavy-handedness.

• He acted as the enforcer of the neighborhood, making sure nobody broke the rules.
• The mob's enforcer was feared by everyone in the town.

Use this word to specifically refer to a male member of the police force. It's a straightforward, neutral term.

• The policeman directed traffic at the busy intersection.
• A policeman helped the lost child find his way home.

This word is specifically used to refer to a female member of the police force. It's a straightforward, neutral term.

• The policewoman patrolled the neighborhood on her night shift.
• She was the first policewoman to be promoted to the rank of sergeant in her precinct.

This term is commonly used in a formal context to refer to a member of the police force or a person with a position of authority in law enforcement. It can be used for both men and women.

• The officer on duty responded quickly to the emergency call.
• Officer Smith received a medal for bravery during the line of duty.

This word is generally used in a more informal or historical context to describe a male law enforcement officer. It's often associated with sheriffs or historical figures in the Old West.

• The lawman rode into town to bring justice to the wild frontier.
• He's a lawman from the old school, with a strong sense of right and wrong.

An enforcer is someone who makes sure that rules or laws are followed, often through the use of authority or force. This term is common in legal, sports, and organizational settings.

• The enforcer ensured that everyone adhered to the new company policies.
• In hockey, an enforcer is a player who protects their teammates by responding to aggression from opponents.

Bruiser refers to a physically strong and aggressive person, often implying they are quick to engage in physical confrontations. This term has a more informal and slightly negative connotation.

• The club hired a bruiser to manage unruly patrons.
• He was known as the local bruiser, always ready to start a fight.

Tough guy is used to describe someone who is strong, resilient, and unafraid to engage in confrontations. This term is informal and can carry both positive and negative implications, depending on the context.

• He liked to play the tough guy, always acting strong and fearless.
• The movie’s hero was a classic tough guy who took matters into his own hands.

A protector is someone who defends and safeguards others from harm, often in a caring or guardianship role. This term tends to have a positive and nurturing connotation.

• As a big brother, he was his sister's protector.
• The king was known as the protector of his people, always ensuring their safety and well-being.