Com·mand, n.
1. An authoritative order requiring obedience; a mandate; an injunction.
Awaiting what command their mighty chief
Had to impose. --Milton.
2. The possession or exercise of authority.
Command and force may often create, but can never cure, an aversion. --Locke.
3. Authority; power or right of control; leadership; as, the forces under his command.
4. Power to dominate, command, or overlook by means of position; scope of vision; survey.
The steepy stand
Which overlooks the vale with wide command. --Dryden.
5. Control; power over something; sway; influence; as, to have command over one's temper or voice; the fort has command of the bridge.
He assumed an absolute command over his readers. --Dryden.
6. A body of troops, or any naval or military force or post, or the whole territory under the authority or control of a particular officer.
Word of command Mil., a word or phrase of definite and established meaning, used in directing the movements of soldiers; as, aim; fire; shoulder arms, etc.
Syn: -- Control; sway; power; authority; rule; dominion; sovereignty; mandate; order; injunction; charge; behest. See Direction.
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