policeman

[puh-lees-muhn]

noun

plural

policemen 

1. a member of a police force or body.

2. Ice Hockey.,  enforcer.

policeman

/ pəˈliːsmən /

noun

1. Gender-neutral form: police officer. a member of a police force, esp one holding the rank of constable

Gender Note

See -man.

Other Word Forms

• policemanlike adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of policeman¹

First recorded in 1795–1805; police + -man

Example Sentences

The gunman, who reportedly believed the Covid vaccine had made him sick, killed a policeman before turning the weapon on himself.

From BBC

"I just saw the policemen draw their guns at the gentleman, asking the gentleman to come out of his car," a neighbour, who wished to remain anonymous, told the newspaper.

From BBC

A man who shot a policeman in the leg with a crossbow after officers were called to a neighbour dispute has been jailed for nine years.

From BBC

Acquaroli, quietly astonishing, brings humanity and the merest touch of weary humor to his stubborn policeman.

From Los Angeles Times

A single policeman remained, leaning on a nearby tree and occasionally shining a torch towards the rest of the group, until about 23:00, when he left.

From BBC

Related Words

• constable 
• detective 
• man 
• officer 
• patrolman 
• patrolwoman 
• police 
• policewoman