Henchman's Roots:
* Old Norse: The word originates from the Old Norse word "hǫnggvi", meaning "hanger-on" or "follower."
* Medieval English: This word evolved into the Middle English "hengest," meaning "a hanger-on, a servant," which then morphed into "henchman" in the 1500s.
Modern Usage:
In modern English, "hench" is typically used as slang to describe someone who is muscular, strong, or physically impressive. It's a shortened and informal version of "henchman," which is no longer as common in everyday language.
The Evolution of Meaning:
The shift in meaning from "follower" to "muscular" likely occurred due to the association of henchmen with strong and imposing figures in stories and media. Think of the strong, loyal henchmen in movies and literature who often serve as protectors or enforcers.
So, "hench" is a playful and informal way to describe someone who embodies that strong, imposing presence.