Highwayman - Definition, Meaning, and Examples in English

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

historical context

A highwayman is traditionally a person, typically a man, who robs travelers on public roads. In the 17th and 18th centuries, highwaymen were often portrayed as romanticized bandits in English folklore. They would usually ride on horseback and use firearms or swords to intimidate their victims. Although they were seen as outlaws, some highwaymen became notorious figures, acquiring a certain level of notoriety and legend surrounding their deeds. The practice became less common with the development of law enforcement and improvements in societal safety.

Synonyms

bandit, outlaw, robber.

Examples of usage

The highwayman stopped the carriage and demanded money.
In the story, the highwayman had a heart of gold.
Many feared crossing the moors at night because of the highwayman.
She wrote a poem about a daring highwayman.

Interesting Facts

Historical Context

Highwaymen were most active from the 17th to the 19th centuries, especially in Britain, exploiting the increase in road travel.
Notable highwaymen like Dick Turpin became legends, romanticized in literature and folklore despite their criminal actions.

Pop Culture

Highwaymen have inspired numerous films and novels, casting them as dashing outlaws or charming rogues.
The character of Robin Hood, while not a highwayman per se, shares similarities in being a noble thief who robs the rich.

Psychology

The allure of highwaymen often stems from the idea of the ‘noble outlaw’ who defies authority, resonating with human fascination for rebellion.
Their stories tap into themes of adventure, danger, and the thrill of confrontation with societal norms.

Literature

Highwaymen are frequent characters in classic literature, often depicted as tragic heroes or antiheroes, highlighting their complex motivations.
Poems like 'The Highwayman' by Alfred Noyes portray highwaymen romantically, emphasizing their daring and doomed nature.

Origin of 'highwayman'

Main points about word origin

The term 'highwayman' originated in England during the 17th century, combining 'highway' (public road) and 'man' (person).
Initially, it meant any man who used the highway, but it evolved to specifically refer to robbers targeting travelers.

The word 'highwayman' originated in England during the late 16th century. It is derived from the combination of 'highway', meaning a main road or public thoroughfare, and 'man', referring to a male individual. Initially, the term signified anyone who traveled the highways, but it soon evolved to specifically denote those who preyed upon travelers. During the tumultuous periods of the English Civil War and the subsequent restoration, such criminal activities saw a considerable rise. Highwaymen became infamous, often depicted in literature and ballads as charming rogues, which exemplified public fascination with their daring exploits and rebellious spirit. Although the romanticized image has somewhat overshadowed the realities of their violent actions, the legacy of the highwayman remains firmly entrenched in British folklore and the cultural imagination.

Highwayman Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations