You'll find centuries of history in this word. Arising from 14th Century Latin, praefectus, refers to one who has been put in charge of an area, a district or people.
First used in ancient Rome, the word referred to magistrates or military commanders.
The word was secured in Italy and carried into France as the term for a chief administrative officer in a department. In France, specifically, it is used as the head of the police force.
By the time it reached Britain, its meaning had been watered down to a specific context; that of a schoolchild being appointed as a leader, with limited authority, over peers within the boundaries of the school.
First used in ancient Rome, the word referred to magistrates or military commanders.
The word was secured in Italy and carried into France as the term for a chief administrative officer in a department. In France, specifically, it is used as the head of the police force.
By the time it reached Britain, its meaning had been watered down to a specific context; that of a schoolchild being appointed as a leader, with limited authority, over peers within the boundaries of the school.
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