Car*tel" (?), n. [F., fr. LL. cartellus a little paper, dim. fr. L. charta. See 1st Card.]
1. Mil.
An agreement between belligerents for the exchange of prisoners.
Wilhelm.
2.
A letter of defiance or challenge; a challenge to single combat.
[Obs.]
He is cowed at the very idea of a cartel.,
Sir W. Scott.
<-- 3. a formal or informal arrangement (sometimes unlawful) among independent commercial enterprises organized for the purpose of common gain, as by limiting competition or fixing prices -->
Cartel, or Cartel ship, a ship employed in the exchange of prisoners, or in carrying propositions to an enemy; a ship beating a flag of truce and privileged from capture.
© Webster 1913.
Car"tel (?), v. t.
To defy or challenge.
[Obs.]
You shall cartel him.
B. Jonson.
© Webster 1913.