prefect

noun

pre·​fect ˈprē-ˌfekt 

1

: any of various high officials or magistrates of differing functions and ranks in ancient Rome

2

: a chief officer or chief magistrate

3

: a student monitor in a usually private school

Examples of prefect in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Jose Tolentino de Mendonca A Portuguese cardinal who has served as the prefect of the Dicastery for Culture and Education, a relatively new administration department inside the church that focuses on promoting cultural activities, heritage and the principles of Catholic education. —Willem Marx, NPR, 22 Apr. 2025

In 2016, Farrell left the U.S. to become a prefect of the Vatican Dicastery for the Laity, Family, and Life. —Ross O'Keefe, The Washington Examiner, 21 Apr. 2025

From 2000-2010, Re was prefect of the Vatican’s congregation for bishops, one of the most powerful and influential positions in the Holy See. —Trisha Thomas, Chicago Tribune, 26 Feb. 2025

The department is actually headed by Sister Simona Brambilla, the first-ever nun named as prefect of a major Holy See office. —Nicole Winfield, Chicago Tribune, 6 Mar. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Anglo-French, from Latin praefectus, from past participle of praeficere to place at the head of, from prae- + facere to make — more at do

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing prefect

• prefect apostolic

Rhymes for prefect

• affect
• aspect
• bedecked
• bisect
• collect
• connect
• correct
• deflect
• detect
• direct
• dissect
• effect

Kids Definition

prefect

noun

pre·​fect ˈprē-ˌfekt 

1

: a high official or judge (as of ancient Rome or France)

2

: a student assistant in some schools