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Today, a ‘constable’ is best known as a law enforcement officer. The word’s usage in this regard dates to the early 19th century, but its origins are much older. In the army of the Late Roman Empire, the comes stabuli was chief officer of the (horse) stable.
‘Cunestable’, an early form of the modern word, entered English in the 13th century, and it has remained in place ever since. We find a literary example in Shakespeare’s 1613 play Henry VIII: ‘When I came hither, I was Lord High Constable,/And Duke of Buckingham: now, poore Edward Bohun.’
In the early Middle Ages, a conestable (Old French) was a high-ranking officer serving French monarchs. In time, France’s constable became the supreme commander of the royal military, ranking second only to the king.
One of the most renowned French medieval constables was the 14th century Breton knight Bertrand du Guesclin, who rose to prominence during the Hundred Years War with England. Despite his humble origins, Du Guesclin’s outstanding military talent led King Charles V to appoint him to the exalted position of Constable of France, placing him above many higher-born lords.
The rank, in the form of Constable of England, or the aforementioned Lord High Constable, was adopted by the English in the 14th century, and this official generally fulfilled the same role as his French counterpart. A specific army might also have its own constable. Sir Edward Spencer, for instance, assumed the role as part of the English force that raided France during the Great Chevauchée (cavalry raid) of 1373.
In medieval England, a lesser constable might have overseen the operation of a castle. When his own lord was present, the constable ensured that there would be enough for his master and attendants to eat and drink.
