command UK /kəˈmɑːnd/US /kəˈmænd/noun 10verb 8forms 6phrases 1 noun10 •an order that someone in charge gives and others must followI was given a command to cease shooting. •A directive to a computer program acting as an interpreter of some kind, in order to perform a specific task. •power of control, direction or disposal; mastery.he had command of the situationEngland has long held command of the sea •Dominating situation; range or control or oversight; extent of view or outlook. •The degree of control a pitcher has over his pitches.He's got good command tonight. •The right or authority to order, control or dispose of; the right to be obeyed or to compel obedience.GAGE, at that time, had command of troops near the lakes; and fearing an attack from the Indians, had called for some new recruits from Massachusetts; but the Assembly judged them not necessary. — 1822 •A position of chief authority; a position involving the right or power to order or control.General Smith was placed in command. •The act of commanding; exercise or authority of influence.Command cannot be otherwise than savage, for it implies an appeal to force, should force be needful. — 1851 •A body or troops, or any naval or military force, under the control of a particular officer; by extension, any object or body in someone's charge.I asked myself what I was to do there, now my boat was lost. As a matter of fact, I had plenty to do in fishing my command out of the river. — 1899 •A command performance.Atkinson […] had hinted to me that the Duke of Richmond was so delighted with my acting that he should not be surprised if there was a second command. — 1809 verb8 •To order, give orders; to compel or direct with authority.The soldier was commanded to cease firing.The king commanded his servant to bring him dinner. •To require with authority; to demand, order, enjoin.he commanded silence •To have or exercise supreme power, control or authority over, especially military; to have under direction or control.Monmouth commanded the English auxiliaries. — 1849 •To exact, compel or secure by influence; to deserve, claim.A good magistrate commands the respect and affections of the people.Justice commands the respect and affections of the people. •to dominate through ability, resources, position etc.; to overlook.Bridges commanded by a fortified house. (Motley.)This observation deck commands a breathtaking view of San Francisco Bay. •To hold, to control the use of.The fort commanded the bay.December 1699, Joseph Addison, letter to William Congreve One [side] commands a view of the finest garden. •To have a view (of), as from a superior position.Farr and wide his eye commands. — 1667 •(no longer used) To direct to come; to bestow.I will command my blessing upon you. — 1611 formscommanded · commandedst · commanding · commandeth · commands · commandest Phrases with command command performanceA task, activity, or other assignment which one undertakes in order to satisfy someone in authority, such as an employer.
