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

During the early weeks of Jill Biden’s tenure, her staff observed her relationship with Bernal, who appeared both the mastermind and enforcer of her approach. — Azadeh Moaveni, Vanity Fair, 20 Oct. 2026

Ten years ago, Amar’e Stoudemire played the last season of his NBA career on the Miami Heat, anchoring the team as a veteran paint enforcer. — Austin Horn, Miami Herald, 15 Oct. 2026

Helgeland wrote and directs Outside Man, which follows former Chicago mob enforcer Ruben Bowman (Ice Cube). — Anthony D'alessandro, Deadline, 6 Oct. 2026

Her profile has been high the past two seasons, however, as the enforcer for superstar Fever teammate Caitlin Clark. — Los Angeles Times, 6 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1580, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for enforcer

• endorser
• indorser
• coarser
• courser
• reinforcer