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

However, brick-and-mortar stores do business in similar fashion, yet no legislator or enforcer has thought to police department stores’ or grocers’ prominent placement of in-house brands and labels. —David B McGarry, Oc Register, 9 Apr. 2026

In 2010, antitrust enforcers sued and settled with Live Nation over its acquisition of Ticketmaster, allowing the deal with conditions. —Leah Nylen, Bloomberg, 9 Apr. 2026

Trump has asserted himself as the nation's top law enforcer in his second term, personally directing the attorney general and other top officials on whom to investigate and whom to prosecute. —Devin Dwyer, ABC News, 7 Apr. 2026

Sam must deal with erratic Mob enforcer Nicky (Joe Pesci) and his own con artist wife, Ginger (Sharon Stone), who still has a personal relationship with her boyfriend/pimp. —Kevin Jacobsen, Entertainment Weekly, 5 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1580, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for enforcer

• endorser
• indorser
• coarser
• courser
• reinforcer