Publican
noun
A person who owns or manages a pub or a bar.
Mike is a publican who runs a very popular bar in town.
Often appears as...
- local publican
- professional publican
noun
In ancient Rome, a public contractor, in particular one who contracted for public works to be done.
In Roman times, the publican was responsible for collecting taxes.
Often appears as...
- roman publican
- ancient publican
Usage tips
Historical
noun
A person who owns or manages a pub or a bar.
Mike is a publican who runs a very popular bar in town.
Often appears as...
- local publican
- professional publican
noun
In ancient Rome, a public contractor, in particular one who contracted for public works to be done.
In Roman times, the publican was responsible for collecting taxes.
Often appears as...
- roman publican
- ancient publican
Usage tips
Historical
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3UK Usage
The term is more common in the UK, so use it when talking about British pubs.
The publican at the British pub greeted us warmly.
Pro Tip 2/3Ownership Nuance
Implies ownership or management, not necessarily the bartender.
She's not just working here; she's the publican.
Pro Tip 3/3Cultural Reference
Often used in literature or films to portray a community's social hub.
The publican knew all the town's secrets.
Pro Tip 1/3UK Usage
The term is more common in the UK, so use it when talking about British pubs.
The publican at the British pub greeted us warmly.
Pro Tip 2/3Ownership Nuance
Implies ownership or management, not necessarily the bartender.
She's not just working here; she's the publican.
Pro Tip 3/3Cultural Reference
Often used in literature or films to portray a community's social hub.
The publican knew all the town's secrets.
Pro Tip 1/3UK Usage
The term is more common in the UK, so use it when talking about British pubs.
The publican at the British pub greeted us warmly.
Pro Tip 2/3Ownership Nuance
Implies ownership or management, not necessarily the bartender.
She's not just working here; she's the publican.
Pro Tip 3/3Cultural Reference
Often used in literature or films to portray a community's social hub.
The publican knew all the town's secrets.
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Quote examples
Anthony Browne
British Writer
My dad never decided what he wanted to do; at times he fought in the army, was a teacher, a boxer, a light engineer, and a then a publican. My mum was a traditional housewife and mother. They showed my brother and I unconditional love.
Quote examples
Max Walker
Australian Athlete
I was the son of a publican and a master builder. He ran the Empire Hotel in North Hobart. His name was Max, too. Big Max.
Quote examples
Anthony Browne
British Writer
My dad never decided what he wanted to do; at times he fought in the army, was a teacher, a boxer, a light engineer, and a then a publican. My mum was a traditional housewife and mother. They showed my brother and I unconditional love.
Quote examples
Max Walker
Australian Athlete
I was the son of a publican and a master builder. He ran the Empire Hotel in North Hobart. His name was Max, too. Big Max.
Example 1 of 2
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