Policemen Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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policemen
[ˈpɒlɪsmən ]
Definition
law enforcement
Policemen are officers of the law who are responsible for maintaining public order, preventing crime, and enforcing laws. They typically wear a uniform and are authorized to use force when necessary.
Synonyms
law enforcement officers, police officers.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| policemen |
Refers specifically to male police officers and is considered outdated and less inclusive.
|
| police officers |
The most neutral and widely accepted term for individuals who work for the police force, regardless of their gender.
|
| law enforcement officers |
A formal term used for anyone who has been given the authority to uphold and enforce laws, not limited to just police but including other agents like sheriffs, federal agents, etc.
|
Examples of usage
- Policemen patrol the streets to ensure the safety of the community.
- If you have any concerns, you can approach a policeman for help.
- The policemen apprehended the suspect after a high-speed chase.
- The policemen are trained to handle various emergency situations.
- The policemen work in shifts to cover round-the-clock law enforcement.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
History
- Modern policing began in the early 19th century, with Sir Robert Peel establishing the Metropolitan Police in London in 1829.
- The phrase 'to protect and serve' became popular in the 1960s, emphasizing the police's commitment to community well-being.
- Throughout history, the role of policemen has been shaped by societal changes, including movements for civil rights and the call for community policing.
Pop Culture
- Policemen are often depicted in movies and television shows as heroes solving crimes, from classic films like 'Serpico' to modern series like 'Brooklyn Nine-Nine.'
- Comic books frequently feature super-police like Commissioner Gordon from the Batman series, emphasizing their role in fighting crime.
- Video games, such as 'Grand Theft Auto,' often portray policemen in various roles, from law enforcers to characters players evade.
Psychology
- Studies show that a positive relationship between police officers and community members can lead to reduced crime rates.
- The perception of safety often hinges on public interactions with policemen, who can impact community trust and cooperation.
- Policemen often deal with high-stress situations, requiring strong skills in conflict resolution and communication.
Global Perspectives
- Policing practices vary widely around the world; some countries emphasize community policing, while others rely on more militarized approaches.
- In some cultures, the role of policemen includes social work, addressing not only crime but also community welfare and support systems.
- International organizations often advocate for humane policing practices that respect human rights and community engagement.
Origin of 'policemen'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'police' comes from the Greek word 'polis,' meaning city, which reflects their role in maintaining order in urban areas.
- The word 'officer' is derived from the Latin 'officium,' meaning duty, highlighting their responsibilities.
- Historically, the term 'policeman' has evolved from just referring to male officers, with 'police officer' becoming gender-neutral.
The term 'policemen' originated in the mid-19th century and is a combination of 'police' and 'men'. It reflects the traditional gender bias in law enforcement, as historically, the profession was predominantly male-dominated. Over the years, efforts have been made to promote gender diversity in policing, leading to the inclusion of more women in law enforcement roles.
See also: policeman, policewoman.