enforcer

noun

en·​forc·​er in-ˈfȯr-sər 

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

Those promises are made out of convenience and in order to encourage enforcers to approve a deal. —Rohan Goswami, semafor.com, 7 Aug. 2025

The pair want to open a diner together to provide for their children, but when Ray attempts to quit his post as a mob enforcer, his boss turns violent in a crusade against him — and involves Audrey and the children in the perilous battle. —Rachel Raposas, People.com, 28 July 2025

Richard is cast as a cold-blooded fixer who uses charm, manipulation and violence to rise through the ranks from enforcer to kingpin. —Nollyanne Delacruz, Mercury News, 23 July 2025

The state high court should reject Michigan’s view that code enforcers can violate rights and then make the victims pay. —Andrew Wimer, Forbes.com, 30 June 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1580, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for enforcer

• endorser
• indorser
• coarser
• courser
• reinforcer