1. a chief or leader of an indigenous people of the Caribbean or Central America
Usage: historical
2. a local political boss or leader in Latin America

Examples

• The Spanish conquistadors often worked through local caciques to control indigenous populations.
• The cacique ruled over several villages in the region.
• Historical records describe the cacique as a powerful leader who resisted colonization.
• The political cacique controlled elections in the rural district.
• Local caciques often maintained power through patronage networks.
• The cacique’s influence extended throughout the province.