(n)English lexicographer who was the first to treat etymology consistently; his work was used as a reference by Samuel Johnson (died in 1742), Syn.Nathaniel Bailey, Nathan Bailey
n. [ The same word as bail line of palisades; cf. LL. ballium bailey, OF. bail, baille, a palisade, baillier to inclose, shut. ] 1. The outer wall of a feudal castle. [ Obs. ] [ 1913 Webster ]
2. The space immediately within the outer wall of a castle or fortress. [ Obs. ] [ 1913 Webster ]
3. A prison or court of justice; -- used in certain proper names; as, the Old Bailey in London; the New Bailey in Manchester. [ Eng. ] Oxf. Gloss. [ 1913 Webster ]