\Lic"tor\ (l[i^]k"t[o^]r), n. [L.] (Rom. Antiq.)
An officer who bore an ax and fasces or rods, as ensigns of
his office. His duty was to attend the chief magistrates when
they appeared in public, to clear the way, and cause due
respect to be paid to them, also to apprehend and punish
criminals.
      Lictors and rods, the ensigns of their power. --Milton.