head money

noun

1. a tax of so much per head or person.
2. a reward paid for capturing or killing an outlaw, fugitive, or the like.

head money

noun

1. a reward paid for the capture or slaying of a fugitive, outlaw, etc
2. See poll tax
   an archaic term for poll tax

Word History and Origins

Origin of head money¹

First recorded in 1520–30

Example Sentences

He denied he had been "out of his senses" when he issued the "head money" offer.

From The Daily Beast

Made the claret merino myself, and enjoyed it, as I do anything bought with my "head-money."

From Project Gutenberg

He was charged in the House of Commons with receiving head-money for pirates killed; but the charge was disproved.

From Project Gutenberg

The Admiralty awarded head-money to the frigates for the destruction of the Droits de l'Homme.

From Project Gutenberg

The cut-worm is here correctly defined as the enemy, while the excise claimed by the birds is head-money for his extirpation.

From Project Gutenberg

The wiser Chinese take Ferdinands and Josephs dollars alike, calling them both devils head money.

From Project Gutenberg