bail·iff / ˈbālif/ • n. a person who performs certain actions under legal authority, in particular: ∎  an official in a court of law who keeps order, looks after prisoners, etc.

BAILIFF

An individual who is entrusted with some authority, care, guardianship, or jurisdiction over designated persons or property. One who acts in a managerial or ministerial capacity or takes care of land, goods, and chattels of another in order to make the best profit for the owner. A minor officer of a court serving primarily as a messenger or usher. A low-level court official or sheriff's deputy whose duty is to preserve and protect orderly conduct in court proceedings.

bailiff sheriff's officer, landholder's steward. XIV. ME. baillif — OF. baillif. prob. f. bail BAIL1.