kəˈmɪʃən n. & v. --n. 1 a
the authority to
perform a
task or
certain duties. b a
person or
group entrusted
esp. by a
government with such authority (set up a commission to
look into it). c an
instruction,
command, or
duty given to such a group or person (their commission
was to
simplify the
procedure; my commission was to
find him). 2 an
order for something, esp. a
work of art, to be produced specially. 3
Mil. a a
warrant conferring the rank of
officer in the
army,
navy, or
air force. b the rank so conferred. 4 a the authority to
act as
agent for a
company etc. in
trade. b a
percentage paid to the agent
from the profits of goods etc.
sold, or
business obtained (his wages are low, but he gets 20
per cent commission). c the pay of a commissioned agent. 5 the act of committing (a
crime, sin, etc.). 6 the
office or
department of a
commissioner. --v.tr. 1
authorize or
empower by a commission. 2 a
give (an
artist etc.) a commission for a
piece of work. b order (a work) to be
written (commissioned a
new concerto). 3 Naut. a give (an officer) the command of a
ship. b
prepare (a ship) for
active service. 4
bring (a
machine,
equipment, etc.) into
operation. øcommission-agent a
bookmaker. commission of the
peace 1 Justices of the Peace. 2 the authority given to
them. in commission (of a
warship etc.)
manned, armed,
and ready for service.
out of commission (esp. of a ship)
not in service, not in
working order.
Royal Commission 1 a commission of
inquiry appointed by the
Crown at the
instance of the Government. 2 a
committee so appointed. [ME f. OF f. L commissio -onis (as COMMIT)]