What does "prefect" mean?

Prefect: A superintendent of a department who has control of its police establishment, together with extensive powers of municipal regulation. [France] Brande & C.

Additional senses

  1. 2.In the Greek and Roman Catholic churches, a title of certain dignitaries below the rank of bishop. Apostolic prefect (R. C. Ch.), the head of a mission, not of episcopal rank. Shipley.

Sources