Word: Highwayman
Part of Speech: Noun
Simple Definition: A highwayman is a person, often a robber, who stops cars or coaches on the road and steals from the people inside.
Usage Instructions: The word "highwayman" is usually used in stories or in historical contexts. It can describe someone who committed crimes in the past, especially during the 17th and 18th centuries when traveling was more dangerous.
Example Sentence: In the old stories, the highwayman would jump out from behind a tree and demand money from the travelers.
Advanced Usage: In literature, the term "highwayman" often evokes a romantic or adventurous image, sometimes portraying the robber as a charming outlaw. It can also describe a character in poems and songs.
Word Variants: - Highwaywoman: This is the female version of a highwayman, referring to a woman who commits similar acts of robbery.
Different Meanings: The word "highwayman" specifically refers to robbers on the road. It does not have other meanings in modern usage.
Synonyms: - Robber - Bandit - Thief
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs: While "highwayman" does not have specific idioms or phrasal verbs associated with it, phrases like "hold up" (to stop someone and rob them) can be related to its meaning.
Cultural Note: In popular culture, highwaymen are often depicted in stories, movies, and songs as figures of adventure or rebellion. Famous examples include the poem "The Highwayman" by Alfred Noyes, which tells the story of a romantic outlaw.