Catchpolled

/ˈkætʃpɔld/ adjective, verb

Definition

Seized or arrested by a catchpoll; subjected to the enforcement actions of a corrupt official.

Etymology

From 'catchpoll' + '-ed' past tense suffix. Equivalent in meaning to 'catchpoled' but using the alternate spelling variant.

Kelly Says

Whether spelled 'catchpoled' or 'catchpolled,' the word carries the same medieval trauma—the sense of being violently taken by authorities. The variation in spelling itself shows how unpredictable and uncontrolled these officials were.

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