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POLL

Volume 17 · 144 words · 1823 Edition

a word used in ancient writings for the head; hence to poll, is either to vote, or to enter down the names of those persons who give their votes at an election.

Poll-Evil, a troublesome ulcer on the back of the horse's neck, usually the consequence of external injury. See Farriery, No. 395.

Poll-Money, or Capitation, a tax imposed by authority of parliament on the person or head; either on all indifferently, or according to some known mark or distinction, as quality, calling, &c.

Thus, by the statute 18 Car. II, every subject in the kingdom was assessed by the head, or poll, according to his degree; every duke 100l., marquis 80l., baronet 50l., knight 20l., esquire 10l., &c. and every single private person 12d.

This was no new tax, as appears by former acts of parliament.

Pollachius, or Pollack. See Gadus, Ichthyology Index.