Definify.com
Webster 1913 Edition
Publican
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! Shakespeare
2.
The keeper of an inn or public house; one licensed to retail beer, spirits, or wine.
Webster 1828 Edition
Publican
PUB'LICAN
,Noun.
1.
A collector of toll or tribute. Among the Romans, a publican was a farmer of the taxes and public revenues,and the inferior officers of this class were deemed oppressive. As Jesus sat at meat in the house, behold, many publicans and sinners came and sat down with him and his disciples. Matt.9.
2.
The keeper of a public house; an innkeeper.