alcalde Definition
a mayor or other official in a Spanish-speaking area.
Using alcalde: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "alcalde" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The alcalde of the town welcomed us warmly.
Example
The alcalde presided over the meeting.
Example
The alcalde was responsible for maintaining law and order in the community.
Phrases with alcalde
a high-ranking colonial official in Spanish America who had both administrative and judicial powers
Example
The alcalde mayor was responsible for overseeing the administration of justice in the colony.
alcalde ordinario
a local official in Spanish America who had jurisdiction over minor civil and criminal matters
Example
The alcalde ordinario was responsible for resolving disputes between neighbors.
a local official in Spanish America who had jurisdiction over a specific neighborhood or district
Example
The alcalde de barrio was responsible for maintaining order and resolving disputes within his jurisdiction.
Origins of alcalde
from Spanish 'alcalde', from Arabic 'al-qāḍī', meaning 'the judge'
Summary: alcalde in Brief
'Alcalde' [al-kal-dey] refers to a mayor or other official in a Spanish-speaking area. It is derived from the Arabic word 'al-qāḍī', meaning 'the judge'. The alcalde's responsibilities include maintaining law and order, presiding over meetings, and welcoming visitors. Phrases like 'alcalde mayor', 'alcalde ordinario', and 'alcalde de barrio' denote different levels of authority and jurisdiction.