Dictionary of Phrase and Fable—A

Adelantado

A big-wig, the great boss of the place. It is a Spanish word for “his excellency” (adelantar , to excel), and is given to the governor of a province.

“Open no door. If the adelantado of Spain were here he should not enter.”

—Ben Jonson: Every Man out of his Humour, v. 4.

Source: Dictionary of Phrase and Fable, E. Cobham Brewer, 1894
Ademar
Addle
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