Legal Definitions - princeps

Definition: Princeps (prin-seps) is a Latin term used in Roman law to refer to a leading person, especially the emperor.

Example: During the Roman Empire, Augustus was the first princeps, or emperor, who ruled from 27 BC to 14 AD.

Explanation: The example illustrates how the term princeps was used to refer to the highest authority figure in the Roman Empire, who held the power to make important decisions and govern the people. Augustus was the first person to hold this title, and his reign marked the beginning of the Roman Empire.