1. a long pole used to propel or steer a barge
Usage: chiefly British; nautical
2. used in the phrase 'wouldn't touch with a bargepole' to mean one would not want to be involved with something at all
Usage: chiefly British; idiomatic

Examples

• The bargeman used a bargepole to navigate the narrow canal.
• I wouldn't touch that business deal with a bargepole.
• He pushed the barge forward with a long bargepole.
• She wouldn't go near him with a bargepole after what he did.
• The bargepole was essential equipment for working on the river.