headsman
|heads/man|
C1
/ˈhɛdzmən/
executioner
Etymology
Etymology Information
'headsman' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'hedesman', where 'head' meant 'chief' or 'leader' and 'man' referred to a person.
Historical Evolution
'hedesman' transformed into the modern English word 'headsman' through linguistic evolution.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'chief or leader of a group,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'an executioner who beheads.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
an executioner who beheads condemned prisoners.
The headsman was called to carry out the execution.
Synonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:41