maire

Maire is the French word for mayor, the elected head of a municipality in France and other French-speaking regions. In France, the maire is chosen by the municipal council from among its members for a six-year term and serves as the chief executive of the commune, overseeing local administration, urban planning, civil registries, and the implementation of municipal policies. The maire also represents the state for certain administrative functions at the local level and may appoint deputies to assist in the administration. Similar arrangements exist in other French-speaking countries, including Belgium, Switzerland, Canada, and several African states, with responsibilities that align with the local legal framework.

Etymology and usage: The term derives from Old French maire, from Latin maior meaning greater or elder, reflecting the position’s significance. The English word mayor shares the same root, passing into English via French. In many jurisdictions, the title and the office are distinct from legislative roles, though in some places the maire may preside over a town council.

As a name: Maire is also a surname of French origin and is borne by individuals in regions with French heritage. It can also function as a given name in various contexts, and in Irish naming practice Máire is the standard form of Mary, though spellings vary in Anglophone settings.

In summary, Maire denotes the local executive authority in Francophone governance and also functions as a family name and given name in different cultural contexts.