tithingmen

Noun

tithingman (plural tithingmen)

1. (historical) The chief of a tithing.
   • [...] We that are wisely mounted higher
     Than constables, in curule wit,
     When on tribunal bench we sit,
     Like speculators, should foresee,
     From Pharos of authority,
     Portended mischiefs farther than
     Low proletarian tything-men [...]1663, Samuel Butler, Hudibras, part 1, canto 1

   Synonyms:

   borsholder, decener, headborough

2. (obsolete) A ruler or leader of ten men; a decurion.
3. (UK) A peace officer.

   Synonyms:

   underconstable

4. (US, historical, Maryland and New England dialect) A parish officer elected annually to preserve good order in the church during divine service, to make complaint of any disorderly conduct, and to enforce the observance of the Sabbath.
5. A collector of tithes.

   Synonyms:

   titheman, tithe-man, tithe proctor