Command \Com*mand"\, n.

1. An authoritative order requiring obedience; a mandate; an injunction.

Awaiting what command their mighty chief Had to impose. --Milton.

2. The possession or exercise of authority.

Command and force may often create, but can never cure, an aversion. --Locke.

3. Authority; power or right of control; leadership; as, the forces under his command.

4. Power to dominate, command, or overlook by means of position; scope of vision; survey.

The steepy stand Which overlooks the vale with wide command. --Dryden.

5. Control; power over something; sway; influence; as, to have command over one's temper or voice; the fort has command of the bridge.

He assumed an absolute command over his readers. --Dryden.

6. A body of troops, or any naval or military force or post, or the whole territory under the authority or control of a particular officer.

Word of command (Mil.), a word or phrase of definite and established meaning, used in directing the movements of soldiers; as, aim; fire; shoulder arms, etc.

Syn: Control; sway; power; authority; rule; dominion; sovereignty; mandate; order; injunction; charge; behest. See Direction.

Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)