n. 1 a authority to perform a task etc. b person(s) entrusted with such authority. c task etc. given to such person(s). 2 order for something to be produced specially. 3 a warrant conferring the rank of officer in the armed forces. b rank so conferred. 4 pay or percentage paid to an agent. 5 act of committing (a crime etc.). u. 1 empower by commission. 2 a give (an artist etc.) a commission for a piece of work. b order (a work) to be written etc. 3 a give (an officer) command of a ship. b prepare (a ship) for active service. 4 bring (a machine etc.) into operation. ri in (or out of) commission ready (or not ready) for service. [Latin: related to COMMIT]
