A prefect is a person who holds a position of authority or responsibility. In some countries, such as in France and other parts of Europe, a prefect is an official appointed by the government to oversee a particular region or department, often responsible for maintaining law and order, coordinating disaster relief efforts, and managing local administration.
In schools, colleges, and universities, a prefect may refer to a student who has been chosen to hold a position of leadership, typically assigned with duties such as monitoring classroom behavior or organizing events.
The term "prefect" can also be used in a broader sense to describe someone who is an expert or skilled at something, or someone who exhibits good manners and conduct.