Heraldry. A representation of a staff with projecting stumps or knobs; an actual staff of this kind.
Frequently with reference to the badge or crest of the Earls of Warwick, on which a bear is depicted with a ragged staff. The crest has also become associated more generally with the county of Warwickshire..
Origin
Late Middle English; earliest use found in Inquisition Miscellany. From ragged + staff.