prefecture

American  

[pree-fek-cher] / ˈpri fɛk tʃər /

noun

1. the office, jurisdiction, territory, or official residence of a prefect.

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prefecture British  

/ ˈpriːfɛkˌtjʊə /

noun

1. the office, position, or area of authority of a prefect

2. the official residence of a prefect in France, Italy, etc

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Other Word Forms

• prefectural adjective
• subprefecture noun

Etymology

Origin of prefecture

From the Latin word praefectūra, dating back to 1570–80. See prefect, -ure

Example Sentences

Helicopter tours over the volcanic landscapes of Mount Aso are among the major tourist draws of Kumamoto prefecture, in south-west Japan.

From BBC

The summit is being held in the ancient city of Nara in Takaichi’s home prefecture.

From The Wall Street Journal

"Take shelter and do not use your vehicle," the Manche prefecture warned on X, urging residents to prepare emergency lighting and a drinking water supply.

From Barron's

A survey commissioned by the prefecture showed 50% were open to a restart but 47% were opposed no matter what measures were taken to boost safety.

From The Wall Street Journal

Japan has 826 game factories nationwide, but only a handful in northern prefectures hit hardest by attacks.

From Barron's