bailiffs
|bail-iffs|
/ˈbeɪlɪf/
(bailiff)
court official
Etymology
'bailiff' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'baillif' (from verb 'baillier' / 'bailler' meaning 'to administer, manage'), ultimately from Medieval Latin roots meaning a custodian or manager.
'bailiff' changed from Old French 'baillif' into Middle English 'bailif' and eventually became the modern English word 'bailiff'.
Initially, it meant 'a manager, custodian, or steward of an area or manor'; over time it evolved to the modern senses of 'court officer' and 'enforcement agent'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
an officer of the court responsible for maintaining order in court, serving legal processes, and carrying out the court's orders.
The bailiffs escorted the noisy witness out of the courtroom.
Synonyms
Noun 2
an official who enforces debts by seizing property or belongings to satisfy creditors (especially British usage).
When they failed to pay the rent, bailiffs arrived to take some of their belongings.
Synonyms
Noun 3
(historical/administrative) A local official or manager in medieval and early modern contexts who acted as a steward or administrator for a manor or district.
In medieval records the bailiffs of the manor collected rents and oversaw local affairs.
Synonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2026/01/01 20:12