In old English law. A loud outcry with which felons (such as robbers,burglars, and murderers) were anciently pursued, and which all who heard it werebound to take up, and join in the pursuit, until the malefactor was taken. Bract fols.1156, 124; 4 Bl. Comm. 293.A written proclamation issued on the escape of a felon from prison, requiring allofficers and people to assist in retaking him. 3 How. State Tr. 386.