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

Example Sentences

There, on the porch, was a bailiff acting on behalf of the Dartford Crossing seeking hundreds of pounds over allegedly unpaid fees for the £2.50 toll, known as the Dart Charge.

From BBC

The BBC has seen court documents that show Mr Daim owed more than £14,000 in rent to the real landlord and this had led to bailiffs being sent to the property.

From BBC

In June, just before the bailiffs were due to arrive, Kirsty was out of options.

From BBC

They advertise on job vacancy websites, contact men who have debt and bailiff problems, and conduct recruitment campaigns in higher education establishments.

From BBC

TMZ reported Tuesday that after Gibson was found in contempt of court, a bailiff put him in handcuffs and marched him out of the courtroom.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• constable