noun
- Plural of alcaide; commanders or governors of a fortress or castle, especially in Spain or Portugal.
Usage: historical; often refers to medieval or early modern Spanish/Portuguese military officials
Examples
- The alcaides of the frontier fortresses reported directly to the crown.
- Medieval alcaides were responsible for maintaining the castle's defenses.
- The alcaides controlled access to the strategic mountain passes.
- Historical records document the alcaides who served during the Reconquista.