hangman

Definition

An executioner responsible for hanging criminals.

Etymology

From Middle English hangman, hongman, hangeman, equivalent to hang + -man.

Example Sentences

• "One cried, "God bless us!" and "Amen" the other, As they had seen me with these hangman's hands."
• "I also asked some Royal Academicians to view it, viz. Northcote, Cosway, &c. who approved of it much: it is well composed, and beautifully coloured; but the hangmen at the Exhibition have not hung it in a conspicuous situation; it is placed in an ante-room, and pretty high […]."

Related Words