headsman

[ hedz-muhn ]

noun

, plural heads·men.

1. a public executioner who beheads condemned persons.

headsman

/ ˈhɛdzmən /

noun

1. (formerly) an executioner who beheaded condemned persons

Word History and Origins

Origin of headsman¹

First recorded in 1595–1605; head + 's ¹ + man

Example Sentences

Maybe this hip-hop headsman really is the man in black with the little knife in the film.

From The Daily Beast

As that other voice of his was worthier a headsman than a head when he wished the people of Rome had but one neck.

From Project Gutenberg

Now the time is up,” bawled the King; “come hither, headsman, and take off his head.

From Project Gutenberg

I have seen the axe fall, the axe which I put into the headsman's hands.

From Project Gutenberg

Now let me tell you that if I am not allowed to get to the Prince's heart yet I will stand in the way of the headsman's sword.

From Project Gutenberg

There is a hush—a stillness of the grave—for the very headsman trembles as the horrible blade falls—anon, a moment's delay.

From Project Gutenberg