Found 2 items, similar to publican.
English → English (WordNet) Definition: publican publican n : the keeper of a public house [syn: tavern keeper]
English → English (gcide) Definition: Publican Publican \Pub"li*can\, n. [L. publicanus: cf. F. publicain. See Public.] 1. (Rom. Antiq.) A farmer of the taxes and public revenues; hence, a collector of toll or tribute. The inferior officers of this class were often oppressive in their exactions, and were regarded with great detestation. [1913 Webster] As Jesus at meat . . . many publicans and sinners came and sat down with him and his disciples. --Matt. 1x. 10. [1913 Webster] How like a fawning publican he looks! --Shak. [1913 Webster] 2. The keeper of an inn or public house; one licensed to retail beer, spirits, or wine. [1913 Webster]