Commandant

/ˈkɒm.ən.dɒnt/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A commanding officer in a particular branch of the military, especially one in charge of a specific unit or garrison.

The commandant addressed the troops before their deployment overseas.

An officer in charge of a particular military school or academy.

The commandant of the military academy emphasized discipline and leadership.

A person in a position of authority in charge of a facility or institution.

The commandant of the prison implemented new security measures.

Borrowed from French commandant, present participle of commander, from Latin commendare.

commandant general

The highest-ranking officer in charge of a specific military branch.

acting commandant

A temporary position held by someone serving in the absence of the official commandant.

commandant's orders

Directions given by the commandant that must be followed.

commander

A person in authority in the armed forces.

colonel

A senior military officer ranking above a lieutenant colonel.

major

A military rank above captain and below lieutenant colonel.