bailiff

[ bey-lif ]

noun

1. an officer, similar to a sheriff or a sheriff's deputy, employed to execute writs and processes, make arrests, keep order in the court, etc.
2. (in Britain) a person charged with local administrative authority, or the chief magistrate in certain towns.
3. (especially in Britain) an overseer of a landed estate or farm.

bailiff

/ ˈbeɪlɪf /

noun

1. the agent or steward of a landlord or landowner
2. a sheriff's officer who serves writs and summonses, makes arrests, and ensures that the sentences of the court are carried out
3. (formerly) a high official having judicial powers
4. an official having custody of prisoners appearing in court

Other Words From

• bailiff·ship noun
• sub·bailiff noun
• under·bailiff noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of bailiff¹

1250–1300; Middle English baillif < Old French, equivalent to bail custody ( bail ¹ ) + -if -ive

Word History and Origins

Origin of bailiff¹

C13: from Old French baillif , from bail custody; see bail ¹

Related Words

• constable