1. A medieval officer or constable who made arrests, especially for debt or minor offenses.
Usage: archaic; historical
2. A person who pursues or harasses others, especially for payment of debts; a debt collector.
Usage: archaic; derogatory

Examples

• The catchpoll arrived at the merchant's door with a warrant for unpaid taxes.
• In medieval times, a catchpoll served as both law enforcer and tax collector.
• The debtor fled the village to escape the catchpoll's grasp.
• Catchpolls were often feared and resented by common folk for their harsh methods.
• The character in the historical novel was pursued relentlessly by a corrupt catchpoll.