PUBLICANS
Noun
publicans
plural of publican
Source: Wiktionary
PUBLICAN
Pub"li*can, n. Etym: [L. publicanus: cf. F. publicain. See Public.]
1. (Rom. Antiq.)
Definition: 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.
Source: Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary 1913 Edition