jefe

Definition

An officer with political influence; a head or chief in government, such as a sheriff, particularly where that person is Hispanic or of Mexican descent.

Etymology

Borrowed from Spanish jefe (“leader, boss”), from Old French chief, from Latin caput. Doublet of chief, chef, caput, and head.

Example Sentences

• "Antonio Rivera Cabezas was chosen vice-jefe in March 1830."
• "before he stepped forward uttering the stereotyped greeting, the Texan had put him down as the jefe or head man.... Snatching up the rifle he lit out after the jefe, who had left two jumps ahead of the smoke."
• "Hilario Saño, a suspect, resident here but much doubted by the jefe local, was put to the test"