Definition of posse

The term "posse" originated from the Old French word "poser," which meant "to place" or "to set." This word was adopted by English speakers in the 16th century, where it came to refer to a group of people who were mobilized to pursue and capture a criminal or suspect. In early American law, "posse comitatus" (Latin for "power of the county") became a legal term that referred to a group of citizens called upon by a sheriff or other legal official to enforce the law in cases where the regular authorities were unable to do so. These posses, which could include as few as several people or as many as hundreds, were typically armed and organized by the local community to deal with threats to public safety and order. Today, the term "posse" is still used in a variety of contexts, including police work, emergency responses, and community organizations. While the specific functions of these groups may have changed over time, the idea of mobilizing a community to come together and address a common need is still a powerful one.