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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
“Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged” 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012
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Word History and Origins

Origin of bumbailiff1

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

Origin of bumbailiff1

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

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

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

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

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.

"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."

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