'henchman' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'hengest', where 'hengest' meant 'horse' and 'man' meant 'servant'.

'hengestman' transformed into the Middle English word 'henxman', and eventually became the modern English word 'henchman'.

Initially, it meant 'a groom or horse servant', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a loyal follower or subordinate'.