bumbailiff

[ buhm-bey-lif ]

noun

, British: Disparaging.

1. (formerly) a bailiff or underbailiff employed in serving writs, making arrests, etc.

bumbailiff

/ ˌbʌmˈbeɪlɪf /

noun

1. derogatory.
   (formerly) an officer employed to collect debts and arrest debtors for nonpayment

Word History and Origins

Origin of bumbailiff¹

1595–1605; bum ² + bailiff; alluding to their following close behind debtors and other offenders

Word History and Origins

Origin of bumbailiff¹

C17: from bum ¹+ bailiff, so called because he follows hard behind debtors

Example Sentences

Dunna tell me as Titus Price's never heard of a bumbailiff afore.'

From Project Gutenberg

I don't mean to be made a barrister; I'd as soon be a bumbailiff.

From Project Gutenberg

"Thee Simon Catterall, bumbailiff, catchpole, thieftaker, and"—— Here a sudden lurch threw the jailer on his beam-ends.

From Project Gutenberg

The mental processes of Charles are shown in his suggestion of a pleasant plan whereby Imlay could be lured back to England, arrested, and with the assistance of a bumbailiff, marriage forced upon him.

From Project Gutenberg

"I will admit, before going further, that in spite of the cheerful countenance I maintained before your lordship's friend, the bumbailiff, and your lackeys, I recognize that you have me in a very dangerous position."

From Project Gutenberg