head of a prisoners' group (Edo period)
Historical term for the leader of a self-governing group among prisoners during the Edo period. Not used in modern contexts.
In Edo-period prisons, the rōnanushi served as the leader of the prisoners.
Compound of 牢 (rō, 'prison') and 名主 (nanushi, 'village headman'). The term reflects the hierarchical structure adapted within Edo-period prisons.