1. A village council or local government body in India and other South Asian countries, typically consisting of five elected representatives.
Usage: From Sanskrit pañcha (five) + ayat (assembly); Common in Indian governance and administration; Also spelled panchayet

Examples

• The panchayat met to discuss the village's water supply issues.
• She was elected to the panchayat and now represents her community.
• The panchayat has authority over local disputes and development projects.
• Members of the panchayat work to improve roads and schools in the village.
• The panchayat system has been a cornerstone of rural governance in India for centuries.