gate-bill
Definition
Noun: A gate-bill refers to a record or register, specifically used at the Universities of Oxford and Cambridge, that lists the names of students who return to college after the designated curfew or gate-closing time. It is essentially a late-return register.
Usage Examples
- (The official checked the list of late-returning students.)
- (He was recorded as returning late on multiple occasions.)
Advanced Usage
- "to be entered on the gate-bill": to be officially recorded as having returned late.
- Any student caught climbing the wall after midnight will be entered on the gate-bill. (They will be formally noted for disciplinary purposes.)
Variants and Related Words
- Gate (n): a barrier or entrance, especially the main entrance to a college.
- Bill (n): a list or document, such as a register or invoice.
Synonyms
- Late register: a list of those who arrive after a set time.
- Curfew log: a record of individuals who violate curfew.
Related Idioms
- "to be on the gate-bill": to be in trouble for returning late.
- He was on the gate-bill every weekend, much to the dean's annoyance. (He was repeatedly recorded as returning late, causing disciplinary concern.)