Definition

A person who is responsible for enforcing the law, such as a sheriff or a marshal.

Example

The lawman arrived just in time to stop the robbery.

Conversation

Did you hear about the new lawman in town?

Yeah, I heard he’s really tough on crime.

It’s nice to have a dedicated lawman keeping the streets safe.

For sure! I feel a bit safer knowing he’s around.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Lawman → The word is formed from "law" (from Old English *lagu*, meaning a rule or regulation) and "man" (from Old English *mann*, meaning a person). A lawman is a person who enforces or upholds the law.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'person' ('man') who is associated with 'rules' ('law') — that's why a lawman is someone who enforces the law.

Visually Confused Words