1. Plural of alcalde; Spanish or Spanish American municipal magistrates or mayors.
Usage: Chiefly historical or in Spanish-speaking regions; Borrowed from Spanish

Examples

• The alcaldes of the colonial towns held significant judicial and administrative power.
• In Spanish America, alcaldes were responsible for maintaining order and collecting taxes.
• The alcaldes met to discuss matters affecting their municipalities.
• Historical records show that alcaldes often served as both judges and administrators.
• The position of alcalde was one of the most important offices in Spanish colonial settlements.