publican

/'pʌblikən/

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Word: Publican

Part of Speech: Noun

Definition: A publican is the person who owns or manages a public house, which is another term for a bar or pub. This person is responsible for serving drinks, food, and creating a welcoming atmosphere for customers.

Usage Instructions:

You can use "publican" when talking about someone who runs a bar or pub. It is more common in British English than American English, where "bar owner" or "bartender" might be used instead.

Example Sentences:

1. The publican greeted us with a smile as we entered the cozy pub.
2. After years of working as a chef, she decided to become a publican and open her own bar.

Advanced Usage:

In some contexts, "publican" can also refer to someone who collects taxes, especially in historical or biblical texts. However, this meaning is less common today.

Word Variants:

• Public House: A term for a bar or tavern where people can drink and socialize.
• Publicanism: This term is not commonly used but can refer to the practices or lifestyle associated with being a publican.

Different Meanings:

1. Historical Context: In ancient times, particularly in the Roman Empire, publicans were tax collectors. They often had a negative reputation for being corrupt.
2. Modern Context: Today, the word primarily refers to someone who runs an establishment where alcohol is served.

Synonyms:

• Tavern keeper
• Bar owner
• Innkeeper (though this can sometimes imply a place that offers lodging as well)

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• "On the house": This means that something is free, often used in pubs. For example, "The publican offered us a drink on the house."
• "Raise a glass": This phrase means to make a toast or celebrate, often done in pubs. Example: "Let's raise a glass to the publican for a great evening!"

Conclusion:

Understanding the word "publican" helps you appreciate the role of someone who manages a space for socializing and enjoying drinks.

Academic

Noun

1. the keeper of a public house

Synonyms

• tavern keeper