Jack Ketch

[kech]

noun

British Slang.

1. a public hangman.

Jack Ketch

/ kɛtʃ /

noun

1. archaic,  a hangman

Word History and Origins

Origin of Jack Ketch¹

First recorded in 1665–75; named after John Ketch (1663?–86), English executioner noted for his brutality

Word History and Origins

Origin of Jack Ketch¹

C18: after John Ketch (died 1686), public executioner in England