commandeering
|com-man-deer-ing|
🇺🇸
/ˌkɑːmənˈdɪr/
🇬🇧
/ˌkɒmənˈdɪə(r)/
(commandeer)
take control
Etymology
'commandeer' originates from Middle French, specifically the word 'commander', where 'com-' meant 'with' and 'mander' (from Latin 'mandare') meant 'to order or entrust'.
'commandeer' changed from Middle French 'commander' (and related forms in Dutch such as 'commanderen') and eventually became the English verb 'commandeer', taking on a sense of seizure for use in military or public contexts.
Initially it meant 'to command or give orders', but over time it evolved in English to mean 'to seize or requisition (for official use)'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the act of officially taking possession of something (especially for military or public use); an instance of requisition or seizure.
The commandeering of private vehicles caused delays for residents.
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Verb 1
present participle of 'commandeer': seizing or taking control of something for official purposes.
The officers were commandeering boats to assist in the rescue.
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Last updated: 2025/08/28 23:57