ˈbēd ə l noun
( -s )
Etymology: Middle English bedel, bidel, budel, from Old English bydel; akin to Old High German butil bailiff, Old English bēodan to offer, command — more at bid
1. : a herald or messenger especially in the service of a law court
2. : a parish officer whose duties include ushering and preserving order at church services
3. : a synagogue officer who maintains order