1. plural of catchpole; officers or agents who arrest debtors or execute writs; historically, a constable or bailiff
Usage: archaic; historical; chiefly British
2. plural of catchpole; a person who catches or traps; one who seizes or apprehends
Usage: archaic; rare

Examples

• The catchpoles arrived at dawn to collect the unpaid debts.
• Medieval catchpoles were feared by common folk for their harsh enforcement of the law.
• The debtor fled the city to escape the catchpoles.
• Catchpoles served as the king's agents in collecting taxes and arresting offenders.
• In old literature, catchpoles are often portrayed as corrupt and cruel officials.