strongman
|strong-man|
B2
🇺🇸
/ˈstrɔŋˌmæn/
🇬🇧
/ˈstrɒŋˌmæn/
powerful male figure
Etymology
Etymology Information
'strongman' originates from the English words 'strong' and 'man', where 'strong' meant 'having great physical power' and 'man' referred to an adult male human.
Historical Evolution
'strongman' has been used in English since the 19th century to describe both performers of physical strength and authoritarian leaders.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'a man of great physical strength', but over time it evolved to also mean 'a political leader who rules by force'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a man of great physical strength, especially one who performs feats of strength in a circus or similar entertainment.
The strongman lifted the heavy weights with ease.
Synonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:42