captor
(ˈkæptə(r), -ɔː(r))
[a. L. captor, agent-n. f. cap-ĕre to take (see capture): cf. F. capteur.]
1. One who takes by force a prisoner or a prize; spec. (in 18th c.) one who makes a capture at sea.
| 1688 Miege Gt. Fr. Dict., Captor, celui qui a fait la prise. 1712 Act 10 Anne xxvi. §113 Her Majesty's Declaration made in favour of the Captors of prizes. 1722 Capt. Ogle in Lond. Gaz. No. 6091/3, I being Captor, was disqualified. 1755 N. Magens Insurances I. 487 Before the Ship or Goods, can be disposed of by the Captor. 1805 Southey Madoc in Azt. xviii, Ririd..Close on the captors, with avenging sword, Follow'd right on. 1871 Blackie Four Phases i. 56 Lysander the captor of Athens. |
† 2. A censor. (Cf. caption.) Sc. Obs.
| 1646 Row Hist. Kirk (1842) 186 There were captors appointed to observe what speeches ministers uttered. |