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

Federal and state regulators are key enforcers of parity rules. — Isabella Cueto, STAT, 14 July 2026

So far, antitrust enforcers in China, South Africa, Saudi Arabia, Ukraine, Serbia and North Macedonia, among others, have found that the deal doesn’t violate antitrust laws. — Winston Cho, HollywoodReporter, 13 July 2026

Why aren’t the enforcers themselves serving on the front lines is the question asked on the streets. — Melik Kaylan, Forbes.com, 29 June 2026

She is widely regarded as the team’s enforcer for her physical playing style and willingness to confront opposing players. — Madison Lambert, NBC news, 24 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1580, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for enforcer

• endorser
• indorser
• coarser
• courser
• reinforcer