Meaning and usage of the word highwayman in English

Meaning and usage of the word highwayman in English

Meaning of vocabulary highwayman

highwaymannoun
kẻ cướp đường
/ˈhaɪweɪmən//ˈhaɪweɪmən/

Origin of the word highwayman

The term "highwayman" originated in 16th century England to describe a type of outlaw who robbed travelers on horseback along the country's network of highways. During this time, it was common for wealthy landowners to build private roads, known as "turnpishe roads," which charged tolls to travelers. The lack of regulation and enforcement on these tolls made it an easy target for highwaymen to ambush and loot defenseless travelers. The term "highwayman" became popularized in literature and folk music, exemplified by famous English poets such as William Wordsworth and novelists like Richard Sheridan. The appealing image of the gallant highwayman, an elusive and daring outlaw on horseback, has persisted in popular culture, particularly in British media, films, and TV shows.

Vocabulary summary highwayman

type noun

meaning highway man

Example of vocabulary highwaymannamespace

The notorious highwayman, Dick Turpin, once roamed the country's highways with his band of merry men, terrorizing travelers and stealing their wealth.
During the 18th century, the rolling hills and forests along the highways provided the perfect hiding spots for daring highwaymen, such as Claude Duval and James Hind, who preyed on unsuspecting coaches.
As the sun began to set, the traveler spotted a lone figure on the winding highway ahead. His heart skipped a beat as he realized it was a highwayman, brandishing a musket and holding out his hand for his money and belongings.
The gallows awaited any caught highwayman, but many dared to take to the roads, pillaging travelers who dared to traverse the highways under the cover of darkness.
The old highwayman, now a revered legend in these parts, had lived a life of adventure and woe, preying on the rich and infamous across the length of the county's highways.