ENGLISH
REFERENCE

commissioned

v. · adj.
US //kəˈmɪʃənd// UK //kəmˈɪʃənd// com·mis·sioned
  1. 1 to order work (v.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    to officially ask someone to create something or do a specific job for you.

    to formally request the production of something or the performance of a task, typically in a professional or artistic capacity.

    Example

    The city council commissioned a local artist to paint a mural on the library wall.

    Example

    The government commissioned an independent report to investigate the environmental impact of the new high-speed railway project.

    Usage

    Often used in the passive voice when focusing on the work produced.
  2. 2 specially ordered (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    describes something that was specially made because someone asked for it.

    referring to a work of art, music, or literature produced specifically to fulfill a particular order.

    Example

    The museum displayed several commissioned portraits of the royal family.

    Example

    The composer performed a commissioned piece of music written specifically for the cathedral's anniversary celebration.

    Usage

    Usually appears before the noun it describes.
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  1. 3 military rank (adj.)
    C1 Advanced Formal Technical

    describes a military officer who has a high rank and a formal document giving them authority.

    holding a rank by virtue of a commission, typically referring to officers at the rank of second lieutenant or ensign and above.

    Example

    After years of training, she finally became a commissioned officer in the navy.

    Example

    The academy produces hundreds of commissioned officers each year to lead various branches of the armed forces.

    Usage

    Almost exclusively used in the phrase 'commissioned officer'.

    Teacher's tip

    In military contexts, distinguish this from 'non-commissioned officers' like sergeants or corporals.
    • non commissioned

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