publican

The keeper of a public house or tavern.

A collector of public taxes or tolls in the ancient Roman Empire.

A collector of taxes or tribute from the public.

In ancient Rome, one who farmed the public revenues; a tax-gatherer.

Hence Any collector of toll, tribute, customs, or the like.

The keeper of a public house or other such place of entertainment. In law, under the term publicans are included innkeepers, hotel-keepers, keepers of ale-houses, wine-vaults, etc.

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.

The keeper of an inn or public house; one licensed to retail beer, spirits, or wine.

the landlord of a public house

a tax collector in ancient Rome