Mercenary - English Definition & Meaning

Definition

A 'mercenary' is someone primarily motivated by money or material gain. Think of soldiers who fight for whoever pays them the most, regardless of the cause. 💰 It's like a hired gun in the Wild West, loyal only to the highest bidder. It can also describe actions or attitudes motivated purely by profit, lacking any sense of morality or loyalty. It is different from someone simply doing their job; a mercenary actively seeks profit above all else. The word carries a negative connotation, suggesting a lack of integrity.

Etymology

The word 'mercenary' comes from the Latin word 'merces,' meaning 'reward' or 'wage.' This evolved into the Old French word 'mercenaire,' referring to a hired soldier. The word entered English in the 16th century. It's connected to the word 'merchant' through the root 'merx,' meaning merchandise, highlighting the idea of something being bought and sold. The term has always carried a sense of disapproval.

Related Words

Examples

• "The company was accused of taking a mercenary approach to business, prioritizing profits over ethics." 😠
• "He refused to take the job, saying he didn't want to be seen as a mercenary." 🙅
• "The mercenary soldiers fought for whichever side paid the most." ⚔️
• "Some critics described the politician's motives as purely mercenary." 👨‍💼

Encouragement

The word 'mercenary' is perfect for describing situations where people are driven by profit rather than principles. Use it to add some edge to your vocabulary when talking about business, politics, or even personal relationships. Remember, being principled is cool! 😎

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