Chauf`feur" (?), n. [F., lit., stoker.]
1. [pl.] (F. Hist.)
Brigands in bands, who, about 1793, pillaged, burned, and killed in parts of France; -- so called because they used to burn the feet of their victims to extort money.
2.
One who manages the running of an automobile; esp., the paid operator of a motor vehicle.
© Webster 1913