Which term is used for an executioner or butcher?

The term for an executioner or butcher is "carnifex." In ancient Roman society, this word specifically referred to someone who carried out executions or worked with animal slaughter, indicating a connection to death and the handling of corpses or meat. The role of a carnifex was often viewed with a certain level of disdain in society, as it involved acts that were seen as necessary but morally ambiguous.

The other terms listed have distinct meanings that do not relate to executioners or butchers. "Publicanus" was a term for a tax collector, "pistor" referred to a baker, and "tonsor" was used for a barber. Each of these professions played a vital role in Roman daily life, but they do not encompass the functions of an executioner or butcher, highlighting the specific nature of the term "carnifex."