headshrinker

[ hed-shring-ker ]

noun

, Slang.

1. shrink ( def 9 ).

headshrinker

/ ˈhɛdˌʃrɪŋkə /

noun

1. slang.
   a psychoanalyst Often shortened toshrink
2. a head-hunter who shrinks the heads of his victims

Word History and Origins

Origin of headshrinker¹

An Americanism dating back to 1945–50; head + shrink + -er ¹

Example Sentences

If he could get to a doctor, a headshrinker, it might all be ironed out.

From Project Gutenberg

Then, he'd meekly surrender and quietly go crazy in his cell, until the headshrinker came and confirmed it for real.

From Project Gutenberg

Seems the brass are holding you for observation until some headshrinker gets in from HQ.

From Project Gutenberg

You're a headshrinker, Jack—why do so many minds cling to unreason with such a sullen fury?

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• psychotherapist
• therapist