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

Example Sentences

“Hul-lo,” said Jack Ketch, with a twitch of his mustache, and he smiled at Scarlett through the bars like a rabbit with a secret.

From Literature

The bigger man put his hands out, linked them to make a step, and Jack Ketch’s black-clad foot went into it.

From Literature

Jack Ketch darted forward, his polished black shoes almost soundless on the leaf-mold.

From Literature

Having thus cooled down Divine vengeance, Moses himself became the Jack Ketch, or executioner of his brethren.

From Project Gutenberg

At that age I should have had no objection to a little physical force fighting; but I was sober enough to see its impracticability, and thus I frustrated the acquaintance, which Liverpool, Castlereagh, Sidmouth, and their spy Edwards, wished to bring me into with Jack Ketch.

From Project Gutenberg