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prefecto

prefect

noun preh-FEHK-toh Rare
People & Society Government

Origin: From Latin praefectus (one put in charge), from praeficere.

Usage Note

Prefecto denotes a senior administrative official, used in France-influenced systems (a French préfet is translated as prefecto) and in some Latin American countries for a regional governor. In school contexts in some countries it can mean a senior pupil with disciplinary duties, similar to English 'prefect'. The feminine prefecta is used where the role is held by a woman.

Examples

"El prefecto firmó el decreto regional."

Natural Translation

The prefect signed the regional decree.

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