Synonyms for

Mercenaries

Verb / ˈmɜ:sʌˌneri:z / Another word for mercenaries — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Mercenaries are soldiers who fight for pay rather than loyalty to their country.

Synonyms & similar words

mercenary soldieroffortune PMCs

Synonyms by register

Formal

hired soldiers contract soldiers private military contractors

Informal

hired guns soldiers of fortune hired help

Literary

sword for hire steel for hire

Antonyms

volunteers patriots defenders protectors allies freedom fighters

Common collocations

  • mercenaries for hire
  • foreign mercenaries
  • hired mercenaries
  • mercenaries group
  • mercenaries army
  • mercenaries fighting
  • mercenaries deployed

Word family

noun mercenary
adjective mercenary

Usage note

Mercenaries are often associated with a lack of loyalty to a cause, fighting solely for financial gain. The term generally carries a negative connotation.

Example sentences

  1. The mercenaries were well-trained and well-equipped.
  2. The warlord hired a group of mercenaries to fight his enemies.
  3. Mercenaries often have a reputation for being ruthless.
  4. The mercenaries were paid a lot of money for their services.
  5. Some people believe that mercenaries are not as loyal as regular soldiers.

Quotes

  • I don't like mercenaries. They are a cowardly bunch of people. - Vladimir Putin
  • Mercenaries are the ultimate capitalists, putting their lives on the line for money. - Sebastian Junger
  • Mercenaries are soldiers who fight for money, and little else. - Jeannette Walls

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