public enemy
Most wanted criminal
Public enemy refers to someone considered a serious threat to society or the general welfare.
The term gained prominence in the 1930s when the FBI published lists of dangerous criminals: John Dillinger was declared Public Enemy Number One.
Today it often appears in political or rhetorical contexts: The senator called the legislation a public enemy.
The phrase suggests someone or something deserving collective opposition.
- gangsterCriminal organization member
- criminalPerson who breaks laws
- villainWicked story antagonist
- outlawFugitive from justice
- armed and dangerousPossessing weapons, prone to violence
John Dillinger · most wanted list · notorious · infamous · felon · FBI · federal agent · law enforcement · bank robber · rap · Al Capone · crime spree · mobster · lawbreaker · terrorist · hip-hop · wanted poster · fugitive
public enemynational hero
Celebrated defender of country
folk hero · pillar of the community · national treasure · man of the people · woman of the people
public enemygood citizen
Law-abiding community participant
public servant · crime fighter · solid citizen · lawman · peace officer
public enemypublic servant
Government worker serving citizens
patriot · public advocate · civic leader · community leader · social reformer
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