catchpole — English Dictionary

Noun

1. A taxman, one who gathers taxes.

   Usage

   • Obsolete

   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.

2. A sheriff’s officer, usually one who arrests debtors.

Noun

1. An implement formerly used for seizing and securing a person who would otherwise be out of reach.

   Usage

   • Historical

   Synonyms

   man catcher

   Examples

   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.