noun

jefe

Jefe (noun) means a boss or leader, especially used informally in contexts with Spanish or Mexican influence. Example: “The workers called their supervisor "el jefe.”

noun

A boss or leader, especially used informally in contexts with Spanish or Mexican influence.

"The workers called their supervisor "el jefe.""

"She runs the kitchen — she's the jefe around here."

How to use jefe

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishSpanish for "boss," often borrowed into English informally.

Easily confused with

chief → chef →

Word forms

jefes plural

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Fill the gap

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The workers called their supervisor "el _____."

Etymology

Borrowed from Spanish "jefe" (leader, boss), tracing back through Old French to Latin "caput" (head) — the same root that gives English "chief" and "chef."

Origin: Latin

Frequently asked questions

What does “jefe” mean?

The word “jefe” means a boss or leader, especially used informally in contexts with Spanish or Mexican influence. In plain terms, spanish for "boss," often borrowed into English informally.

How do you use “jefe” in a sentence?

Here is “jefe” used in a sentence: “The workers called their supervisor "el jefe.".”

What part of speech is “jefe”?

“Jefe” is a noun.

Where does the word “jefe” come from?

The word “jefe” comes from Latin. Borrowed from Spanish "jefe" (leader, boss), tracing back through Old French to Latin "caput" (head) — the same root that gives English "chief" and "chef.".