See Also: trailbaston(dictionary)

trailbaston (iou)



trailbaston noun. ME.
[Anglo-Norman traille-baston, from traille imper. of Old French traillier TRAIL verb + BASTON, lit. 'person who trails or carries a club or cudgel'.]
Hist. Any of a class of violent brigands or hired ruffians active in the reign of Edward I, during his absence or absorption in foreign wars. Also, the system of violence of these brigands; an ordinance issued against them; an inquisition, trial, court, or justice appointed for their suppression.