1. A high-ranking official or administrator in ancient Rome, typically commanding military forces or governing a province or city.
Usage: historical; often capitalized when referring to a specific historical figure
2. In some modern institutions (especially schools and universities), a senior student or official with supervisory or disciplinary responsibilities.
Usage: chiefly British; institutional

Examples

• The praefect of Egypt reported directly to the Roman emperor.
• In ancient Rome, a praefect commanded the city guard and maintained order.
• The school appointed senior students as praefects to supervise younger pupils.
• Pontius Pilate served as praefect of Judea during the first century.
• The praefect's authority extended over both military and civil matters in the province.