Meaning of the word posse in English

What does posse mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

posse

US /ˈpɑː.si/
UK /ˈpɒs.i/

Noun

1.

a group of people who have come together for a particular purpose, especially a group of friends

Example:
He arrived at the party with his whole posse.
The singer always travels with a large posse of bodyguards and assistants.
2.

a body of men, typically armed, summoned by a sheriff to enforce the law

Example:
The sheriff formed a posse to track down the outlaws.
The old Western movies often featured a sheriff and his posse chasing bandits.