1. A medieval officer or bailiff who arrested debtors or criminals; a law enforcement officer of low rank.
Usage: archaic; historical
2. A person who pursues or harasses others, especially for payment of debts; an extortionist or oppressive collector.
Usage: archaic; derogatory

Examples

• The catchpole arrived at the merchant's door with a warrant for unpaid taxes.
• In medieval times, catchpoles were feared by common folk for their harsh enforcement of the law.
• The corrupt catchpole demanded bribes from anyone who crossed his path.
• Local residents complained that the catchpole's methods were more suited to a tyrant than a lawman.
• The novel depicted a catchpole as a symbol of injustice in the old feudal system.