bumbailiff

American  

[buhm-bey-lif] / ˌbʌmˈbeɪ lɪf /

noun

British: Disparaging.

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

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bumbailiff British  

/ ˌbʌmˈbeɪlɪf /

noun

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

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Etymology

Origin of bumbailiff

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

Example Sentences

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

From Anna of the Five Towns by Bennett, Arnold

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

From Traditions of Lancashire, Volume 2 by Roby, John

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 Little Journeys to the Homes of the Great - Volume 13 Little Journeys to the Homes of Great Lovers by Hubbard, Elbert

"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 The Lion's Skin by Sabatini, Rafael

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

From Our Home in the Silver West A Story of Struggle and Adventure by Stables, Gordon