Command

/kəˈmænd/

Meaning & Definition

noun

An authoritative order or instruction.

The general issued a command to the troops to advance.

The ability to control or influence others.

She has a strong command over the classroom, keeping all the students engaged.

A group of military forces under the control of a single officer.

He was placed in command of the naval fleet.

verb

To give an order or instruction to someone.

The sergeant commanded the soldiers to stand at attention.

To have control over; to dominate.

He commands a vast knowledge of history.

To receive or have the ability to use; to be in a position to do something.

She commands a high salary due to her expertise.

From Latin 'commandare', meaning to entrust.

in command

In a position of authority or control.

under command

Subject to the authority or orders of someone.

command performance

A performance given specifically for someone important.

command responsibility

The obligation of a person in a position of authority to ensure that operations are conducted according to law.

commandeer

To take control of something, especially for military use.

commandant

A commanding officer in a military unit or group.

commandery

A district or command previously held in the context of a knightly order.

To have strong authority or control.

He commands respect in the office.

To give someone the order to do something.

She commanded me to finish the report by noon.