Synonyms for

Mercenary

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

Definition

A mercenary is a soldier who fights for any country or group that will pay them.

Synonyms & similar words

materialistic mercantile worldlyminded moneymaking soldieroffortune freelance adventurer rounder buccaneer pirate privateer militant warrior fighter combatant campaigner belligerent defender guard protector watchman

Synonyms by register

Formal

hired soldier profiteer opportunist sellsword

Informal

hired gun money-grubber gold digger

Literary

swordsman for hire soldier of fortune

Antonyms

volunteer altruist philanthropist idealist patriot hero

Common collocations

  • mercenary army
  • mercenary force
  • mercenary group
  • mercenary soldier
  • mercenary motive
  • mercenary spirit
  • mercenary attitude

Word family

noun mercenary
adjective mercenary

Usage note

The term 'mercenary' often carries a negative connotation, implying a focus on personal gain rather than loyalty or principle. It can refer to a soldier who fights for pay or anyone motivated solely by money.

Example sentences

  1. The mercenary was paid to fight for the king.
  2. The mercenaries were hired to protect the wealthy merchant.
  3. The mercenary joined the army for the money.
  4. The mercenaries were feared for their ruthless tactics.
  5. The mercenary fought in many different wars.

Quotes

  • A mercenary soldier is one who gets paid to kill the enemy of someone else.
  • The mercenary is a soldier who fights for his own wallet.
  • A mercenary, in the modern sense of the word, is a professional soldier.

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