noun

1. One motivated by gain, especially monetary.

2. A person employed to fight in an armed conflict who is not a member of the state or military group for which they are fighting and whose primary motivation is private gain.

3. One hired to engage in a figurative battle, as a corporate takeover, a lawsuit, or a political campaign.

adjective

1. Motivated by private gain.

Synonyms: hired gun, greedy, venal