noun
also prae·fect ˈprēˌfekt
( -s )
Etymology: Middle English, from Middle French, from Latin praefectus, from past participle of praeficere to place at the head of, from prae- pre- + facere to make — more at do
1. : any of various high officials or magistrates of differing functions and ranks placed at the head of particular commands, charges, or departments in ancient Rome
2. : a chief officer or chief magistrate : president
prefect of Paris police
the prefect of one of the congregations of cardinals
prefect of the ladies' sodality
3. : a student monitor or praepostor in English public or secondary schools and some American private schools