Translation guide
A henchman is a loyal follower or subordinate who carries out orders, often for a villain or in a criminal context. In Japanese, the best choice depends on the nuance: a criminal underling, a loyal retainer, or a generic subordinate.
A subordinate in a criminal organization or gang, often doing dirty work.
The most common and direct translation for a henchman in a criminal or villainous context. Implies someone who follows orders without question.
The boss's henchmen handle the dirty work.
Often used for a follower in a yakuza or gang hierarchy. Can also be used affectionately for a protégé.
The boss's henchmen gathered.
A more formal term for subordinates under one's command, often used in historical or organizational contexts.
He has many henchmen under his command.
A faithful retainer or follower, often in a feudal or fantasy setting.
A person who works under someone else, without strong criminal or villainous connotations.
手下 (てした) is the closest to 'henchman' in a villainous context. 子分 (こぶん) implies a hierarchical gang relationship, often yakuza. 部下 (ぶか) is a neutral 'subordinate' and can be used in any workplace, but lacks the criminal nuance unless context makes it clear.
There is no single Japanese word that perfectly matches all nuances of 'henchman'. Using 手下 for a loyal samurai retainer would be odd; use 家来 instead. Using 家来 for a modern office worker would be comical.
The warlord and his henchmen headed to the battlefield.
A derogatory term for someone who always tags along with a superior, like a sycophantic follower.
He's the president's henchman (always hanging around).