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Synonyms

enforcer

American  
[en-fawr-ser, -fohr-] / ɛnˈfɔr sər, -ˈfoʊr- /

noun

  1. a person or thing that enforces.

  2. the member of a group, especially of a gang, charged with keeping dissident members obedient.

  3. a person, especially a public official, who enforces laws, regulations, rules, or the like.

  4. Also called policeman. Ice Hockey. a physically intimidating or willingly belligerent player who is counted on to retaliate when rough tactics are used by the opposing team.


Etymology

Origin of enforcer

First recorded in 1570–80; enforce + -er 1


Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

Taeb, a cleric, was named commander of the Basij, the IRGC's vast youth militia, which has become notorious as an enforcer of security in Iranian neighbourhoods.

From Barron's ● Aug. 20, 2026

Her reputation as Clark’s right-hand and enforcer spread along with the viral clip.

From Salon ● Aug. 9, 2026

But it’s Big Baby, a crayon-tattooed, life-size enforcer in “Toy Story 3,” that still haunts me.

From Los Angeles Times ● Jun. 17, 2026

Kohli plays Arjun Devraj, an enforcer for the futuristic Soltari corporation sent on a rescue mission to the hostile planet of Carcosa.

From BBC ● Apr. 30, 2026

Mom was the enforcer, always hovering, but Dad hung back a little.

From "Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children" by Ransom Riggs

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