The word "prerogative" refers to a special right or privilege that is exclusive to a particular individual or group. It suggests an entitlement to make decisions or take actions that others may not have the authority to do. For instance, a manager in a company may have the prerogative to make hiring decisions.
The term "prerogative" comes from the Latin word "prerogativa," which means "a right of voting before others." It evolved in Middle French as "prerogative," and has been used in English since the late 14th century.