1. Plural of bargepole; long poles used to propel or steer a barge.
Usage: chiefly British; nautical
2. In the phrase 'wouldn't touch with a bargepole,' used to express strong unwillingness to be involved with something or someone.
Usage: idiomatic; chiefly British

Examples

• The bargemen used long bargepoles to navigate the narrow canal.
• The boatyard stored several bargepoles along the dock.
• I wouldn't touch that deal with a bargepole—it's far too risky.
• She made it clear she wouldn't touch his proposal with a bargepole.
• The old bargepoles were made of sturdy wood and lasted for decades.