linkman

/'liɳkmən/

Thân thiện

A linkman carries a torch to light the way for a gentleman on a cobbled street.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A person who carries a torch to light the way for pedestrians in dark streets: Historically, a linkman was an attendant hired to provide illumination by carrying a flaming torch (a "link") in areas without street lighting.
   • A person who connects or facilitates: In a more modern and extended sense, a linkman can refer to someone who acts as a connection or intermediary between people, groups, or ideas.

Usage Examples

• Noun (Historical):

  • In 18th-century London, a linkman would guide gentlemen home through the foggy, unlit lanes.
  • The wealthy family always employed a linkman when returning from the theatre after dark.

• Noun (Modern/Extended):

  • He acted as the perfect linkman between the research department and the marketing team.
  • In the meeting, she served as a linkman, ensuring all parties understood each other's positions.

Advanced Usage

• "to act as a linkman": to perform the role of a connector or facilitator.
  • His ability to speak both languages allowed him to act as a linkman during the international negotiations.

Variants and Related Words

• Linkboy (n): A boy or young man who worked as a linkman. This is an archaic term.
  • The linkboy held his torch high to light the path.

Synonyms

• Torchbearer: A person who carries a torch, often used literally or metaphorically for someone leading the way.
• Intermediary: A person who acts as a link between people in order to try to bring about an agreement.
• Liaison: A person who acts as a connection between groups or people.

Related Phrases

• "to carry a torch for someone": This idiom, meaning to have enduring feelings of love for someone, is etymologically related to the concept of a linkman carrying a light, though its modern meaning is different.

Học thuật

Noun

1. (formerly) an attendant hired to carry a torch for pedestrians in dark streets

Từ đồng nghĩa

• linkboy