CONSTABLE Meaning and
Definition
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A constable is a noun that refers to a low-ranking law enforcement officer whose primary duty is to ensure public safety and maintain order within a specific jurisdiction. This term is particularly used in British English, but it can also be found in various other legal systems worldwide.
Typically, a constable is appointed by a governmental or local authority and is vested with limited powers of arrest and law enforcement. They are responsible for enforcing minor offenses, conducting investigations, issuing citations, and occasionally assisting higher-ranking officers in more serious criminal cases. Constables often patrol designated areas, such as neighborhoods or specific districts, to deter criminal activities and respond to emergencies. Additionally, they may serve summonses, subpoenas, or other legal documents to individuals involved in legal proceedings.
Authorities such as county or city police departments, as well as some special law enforcement agencies, may employ constables. The position requires integrity, good judgment, and a commitment to public well-being, as constables serve as a visible representative of the law and the authority they represent.
In summary, a constable is a local law enforcement officer responsible for maintaining peace, upholding laws, and protecting the community within a specific jurisdiction.
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Once a high officer of the Crown, now a peace-officer; a policeman.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for CONSTABLE *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for CONSTABLE
Etymology of CONSTABLE
The word "constable" originates from the Old French term "conestable", which ultimately comes from the Late Latin word "comes stabuli". "Comes" means "count" or "companion", while "stabuli" refers to "stable". In medieval times, the "comes stabuli" was an officer in charge of the stables, particularly those belonging to a royal household. Over time, the term evolved to refer to a high-ranking officer in charge of military affairs and law enforcement in a town or district. This transformation occurred during the Norman Conquest of England in the 11th century, as the Normans introduced their own administrative and legal systems. The term "constable" gradually became associated with the role of a local law enforcement officer, responsible for maintaining peace and order in a community.
Similar spelling words for CONSTABLE
- connect,
- constrict,
- constitute,
- constabulary,
- constantine,
- constipate,
- countable,
- Constantino,
- constant,
- constellate,
- consternate,
- construct,
- construe,
- constancy,
- constantan,
- constantly,
- comestible,
- conestoga,
- constipated,
- constringe,
- constante,
- contestable,
- constraint,
- constituent,
- construal,
- Constance.
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