Myrmidon a member of a warlike Thessalian people whom, according to a Homeric story, Achilles led to the siege of Troy. In extended usage, the term is used for a hired ruffian or unscrupulous subordinate; myrmidon of the law is recorded as a derogatory term for a police officer or a minor administrative legal official.

myrmidon one of a warlike race of Thessaly XIV; † soldier of a bodyguard, faithful follower; unscrupulously faithful attendant XVII. — L. pl. Myrmidones — Gr. Murmidónes, acc. to legend created orig. from ants (múrmēkes).