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View synonyms for hatchet man

hatchet man

or hatchet·man

noun

  1. a professional murderer.
  2. a writer or speaker who specializes in defamatory attacks, as on political candidates or public officials.
  3. a person whose job it is to execute unpleasant tasks for a superior, as dismissing employees.


hatchet man

noun

  1. a person carrying out unpleasant assignments for an employer or superior
  2. a hired murderer
  3. a severe or malicious critic
“Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged” 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012


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Word History and Origins

Origin of hatchet man1

An Americanism dating back to 1745–55
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Example Sentences

And woe to the boat if her hatchet-man fails to cut the rope at the very second of danger!

The hatchet-man with whom Wilbur was fighting had been backing in this direction.

Oh, yes; told me I was a hatchet man and trying to get the man's job.

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