# patel

/pəˈtɛɫ/ (US)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/patel
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. a surname

noun · CEFR B2

a very common last name for people from the Gujarat region of India.

For teachers: a common surname among the Gujarati people, widely found in India and the global diaspora.

- Ms. Patel is the new manager of the local pharmacy.
- The Patel family has lived in this neighborhood for three generations, contributing significantly to the local business community.

### 2. village leader

noun · CEFR C2 · Archaic · Technical

a historical title for the head of a village in India.

For teachers: a historical administrative title for a village headman in India, traditionally responsible for tax collection and maintaining order.

- In the old days, the patel was the most important person in the village.
- Historical records from the Maratha Empire indicate that the patel held significant authority over land distribution and local disputes.

Usage: Often capitalized when used as a specific title before a name.

## Examples

- Mr. Patel is the new manager of the local pharmacy.
- The local community center is hosting a dinner to honor the Patel family for their years of service.
- Sociological studies of the Indian diaspora often highlight the Patel community's significant influence in the hospitality and retail sectors across North America and Europe.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.