publican Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun the keeper of a public house
    tavern keeper.

WordNet

Pub"li*can noun
Etymology
L. publicanus: cf. F. publicain. See Public.
Definitions
  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.
    As Jesus at meat . . . many publicans and sinners came and sat down with him and his disciples. Matt. 1x. 10.
    How like a fawning publican he looks! Shak.
  2. The keeper of an inn or public house; one licensed to retail beer, spirits, or wine.

Webster 1913