A leader or chief of an indigenous group in Latin America or the Caribbean.

Origin: The word 'cacique' originates from the Taíno language, where it was used to denote a tribal chief or leader. It was adopted into Spanish during the colonial period of the Americas. The original Taíno term was borrowed by the Spanish due to their interactions with the indigenous peoples of the Caribbean.Historical and Cultural Context: The term 'cacique' was first documented by Spanish colonizers in the late 15th century, particularly in the context of their encounters with the Taíno people in the Caribbean. The word was used to describe the local leaders who played significant roles in the social and political structures of their communities.Evolution: Over time, the term 'cacique' extended beyond its original meaning to refer more generally to local political bosses or leaders, particularly in rural areas of Latin America. In this context, it sometimes carries a negative connotation, implying autocratic or corrupt leadership.Modern Relevance: Today, 'cacique' is used in various contexts to refer to leaders or influential figures, often in a political or social sense. It can be used both in historical discussions of indigenous cultures and in modern political discourse, where it might describe a powerful local leader.

The word 'cacique' was one of the first indigenous terms adopted by the Spanish during their colonization of the Americas, highlighting the influence of indigenous languages on Spanish vocabulary.