catchpole

Definitions

1. A surname from Anglo-Norman.
2. A taxman, one who gathers taxes.
   obsolete
3. An implement formerly used for seizing and securing a person who would otherwise be out of reach.
   historical
4. A sheriff’s officer, usually one who arrests debtors.

Equivalents

Examples

“With two such catchpoles as Henry and Uncle Fred at his heels there was nothing left for Grandpa Piper but to sign⟳ his abdication to the drapery business.”

“The use⟳ of the catch-pole is said to have⟳ been to take⟳ horsemen in battle by the neck and drag⟳ them from their horses.”

CEFR level