| Publican 1. (n.) 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. 2. (n.) The keeper of an inn or public house; one licensed to retail beer, spirits, or wine. Thesaurus Entries Internal Revenue Service, assessor, barkeep, barkeeper, barmaid, barman, bartender, bootlegger, brewer, brewmaster, customhouse, customs, distiller, exciseman, farmer, liquor dealer, liquor store owner, mixologist, moonshiner, revenuer, tapster, tapstress, tax assessor, tax collector, tax farmer, taxer, taxman, vintner, wine merchant |