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. commission-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) ]