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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:

Ms. Debicki’s enforcer of norms is known only as the Tailor’s Wife, though before that she was Doctor’s Daughter.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 22, 2026

Mrs Justice Cheema-Grubb told Natland: "You agreed to be the enforcer and pursued it, despite numerous opportunities to extricate yourself."

From BBC ● Oct. 16, 2026

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

He stands there like an enforcer, his arms crossed and his stance wide.

From "Merci Suárez Changes Gears" by Meg Medina

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