Entry Word: command

Function: noun

Meaning: 1 a statement of what to do that must be obeyed by those concerned <the captainʼs commands were followed without question>

Synonyms behest, charge, commandment, decree, dictate, direction, directive, edict, instruction, order, word

Related Words demand, requirement; injunction, mandate; law, precept, rule; ordinance, regulation, statute

Near Antonyms appeal, entreaty, petition, plea, urging; proposal, recommendation, suggestion

2 a highly developed skill in or knowledge of something <a command of French that is the result of a year spent in France as an exchange student>

Synonyms mastership, mastery, proficiency

Related Words virtuosity; fluency, literacy; experience, expertise, know-how, practice (also practise), skill(s); acquaintance, familiarity, intimacy

Near Antonyms incompetence, incompetency; ignorance, illiteracy, unfamiliarity

3 the place from which a commander runs operations <the general set up his command in the old port city>

Synonyms base, headquarters

Related Words home, seat

4 a place from which authority is exercised <central command> — see seat 1
5 the right or means to command or control others <the army officer in command> — see power 1