WordGarden.iobatman
C2Pronunciation
UK
US
- /ˈbætˌmæn/
Meanings
Proper-noun
the DC superhero character and related entertainment franchise
Beyond the definition
Batman isn't just a man in a cape and cowl; he is an idea. Born from tragedy, Bruce Wayne dedicates his life to fighting crime in Gotham City, relying on his intellect, detective skills, martial arts discipline, advanced technology, and sheer willpower instead of superpowers.
The name suggests darkness, mystery, and justice carried out from the shadows, reflecting his brooding personality and nocturnal methods. You might say someone is "a real Batman" if they relentlessly pursue justice or solve complex problems on their own. While the meaning is usually tied to the fictional DC Comics universe, people use the name metaphorically for anyone showing similar determination.
"Batman" refers primarily to a fictional superhero created by artist Bob Kane and writer Bill Finger, who first appeared in Detective Comics #27 in 1939. He is the alter ego of billionaire philanthropist Bruce Wayne, who, after witnessing the murder of his parents as a child, vowed to wage a lifelong war against Gotham's criminal underworld. Operating from the shadows of Gotham City, Batman is known for his bat-inspired silhouette, mastery of detective work and combat disciplines, and high-tech gadgets such as the Batmobile and the Batarang.
Beyond comic books, Batman became a global cultural icon in film, television, and video games. The character carries themes of justice, vengeance, trauma, and the human will to endure. The term is also used metaphorically to describe someone intensely dedicated to a cause, often acting as a "lone wolf" outside formal systems. For example: "She was a real Batman, tirelessly investigating the corruption within the company on her own time."
In a historical British military context, a "batman" is a personal servant or orderly assigned to a commissioned officer. While this usage is less common in modern American English, it remains standard in military history and older literature. So whether you are discussing a cinematic masterpiece or a person of unwavering determination, "Batman" can refer to both a legendary hero and a symbol of disciplined commitment in the dark.
Examples
- 1
Military servant
The colonel's batman had already laid out his uniform and cleaned his boots.
- Domain
a batman was a soldier whose job was to serve a military officer
- 2
Fiction
In the novel, the young officer trusts his batman more than anyone else in the camp.
- 3
Historical role
Batmen were once common in the British Army, but the role disappeared long ago.
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
- officer
- aide-de-camp
Used with (collocations)
- officer's batman
- regimental batman
Explore
- military orderly
- personal attendant
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- batmannoun