■ noun ( plural henchmen )
1》 chiefly derogatory a faithful follower or political supporter, especially one prepared to engage in crime or dishonest practices.
2》 historical a squire or page of honour to a person of rank.
↘(in Scotland) the principal attendant of a Highland chief.
Origin
ME, from OE hengest 'male horse' + man , the original sense being prob. 'groom'.