Commissioner

Definition

A commissioner is an individual who holds a position of authority, typically appointed to oversee a specific government department, organization, or administrative task. Commissioners often manage public services, law enforcement, or regulatory agencies.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /kəˈmɪʃənər/
• Respelling: kuh-MISH-uh-nur

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /kəˈmɪʃənə/
• Respelling: kuh-MISH-uh-nuh

Etymology

The word "commissioner" comes from the Middle French word "commissionaire" and the Latin "commissio," meaning "entrusted" or "given authority." The root word "committere" means "to commit" or "entrust." It came into English in the 15th century, referring to someone appointed with a specific responsibility or authority.

Derivatives

• Commission (noun/verb)
• Commissioned (adjective/verb)
• Commissioning (verb)
• Commissionership (noun)
• Decommission (verb)

Synonyms

• Administrator
• Officer
• Superintendent

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The noun "commissioner" is widely used in government, law enforcement, and sports organizations. For example, "The commissioner of police oversees the city's law enforcement agencies," or "The sports league appointed a new commissioner to manage the league's operations." In various fields, a commissioner is responsible for guiding policies, managing teams, and implementing rules.

Related Terms

• Administrator: A person responsible for running an organization or task.
• Director: A person who leads or supervises a department or organization.
• Regulator: A person or body that enforces laws or standards.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A person in charge of a department, organization, or public office: Refers to individuals appointed to manage and oversee specific sectors.
  • Example: "The commissioner of public health announced new safety regulations."
• An official appointed by a government or organization: Describes a person authorized to perform certain duties or carry out responsibilities within a specific framework.
  • Example: "The commissioner was appointed to investigate the environmental impact of the project."