Definition
In traditional Chinese society, 捕头 (bǔ tóu) was a low-ranking official in the local government's police force, responsible for catching criminals and maintaining order. You'll encounter this term mainly in historical fiction, wuxia novels, and period dramas — it's not used in modern Chinese police contexts.
n.
traditional head constable (local law enforcement officer in imperial China)
Examples
- 捕头。Gǔdài de bǔ tóu fùzé zhuā huàirén.In ancient times, the head constable was responsible for catching criminals.
- 捕头，。Zhège bǔ tóu wǔgōng hěn gāo, yí ge rén zhuā le sān ge dàozéi.This head constable is highly skilled in martial arts; he caught three thieves alone.
- 捕头。Xiǎoshuō lǐ miáoxiě le yí wèi zhèngzhí yǒnggǎn de bǔ tóu.The novel depicts an upright and brave head constable.
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