noun
commander
kuh-MAHN-duh
noun
1
A person who leads and directs a military force or unit.
"The commander briefed his troops before dawn."
2
A naval officer ranked above lieutenant commander and below captain.
"She was promoted to commander after ten years of service."
3
The person in charge of a group or organization more generally.
"He became commander of the local fire department."
How to Use Commander
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSomeone who leads or gives orders to a military force, ship, or organized group.
Common pairings
fleet commander
squadron commander
commander in chief
Word Forms
commanders plural, Commanders plural
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The _____ briefed his troops before dawn.
Etymology
From Old French comandeor, from comander ("to command").