Latin word princeps comes from Proto-Italic *priisemokaps (Chief, distinguished Leader.)

Detailed word origin of princeps

Dictionary entry	Language	Definition
*priisemokaps	Proto-Italic (itc-pro)	Chief, distinguished Leader.
princeps	Latin (lat)	(military, as plural) company or division of the second line of soldiers. Author, originator, founder, head. Chief, director. Leader, first man. Prince, sovereign. Principal person Chief, distinguished. First, foremost.