‖ alguacil
(algwaˈθiːl)
Pl. alguaciles, (Anglicized) -s.
[Sp.: see alguazil.]
Either of two mounted constables in 17th-century costume who lead the team of bullfighters into the ring, keep order during the fight, and award trophies (ears, etc.) to the matadors under his direction.
| 1910 Encycl. Brit. IV. 789/2 The bull-fight begins with a grand entry of all the bull-fighters with alguaciles, municipal officers in ancient costume, at the head. 1932 E. Hemingway Death in Afternoon vi. 63 The alguacils ride up to under the president's box to ask for the key to the red door of the toril where the bull is waiting. 1967 McCormick & Mascareñas Compl. Aficionado iii. 72 In toreo, the entrance into the plaza by the alguaciles (mounted deputies of the president of the corrida), the matadors, their cuadrillas, and the muleteers. |