Definition

To take control of something, especially for military purposes, often without permission.

Example

The officer decided to commandeer the vehicle to transport the injured soldiers.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you hear that they might commandeer some of the buses for the event?

Yeah, I read about that! It's a bit surprising, actually.

I wonder what they'll do if they need more vehicles than planned.

They'll probably just commandeer whatever they can find nearby.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Commandeering is derived from the word 'commandeer', which comes from the French 'commander' (meaning to order or command). The prefix 'com-' (meaning together) and 'mandare' (meaning to order) combine to convey the act of ordering something for one's use, often in a military context.

Memory Tip

Think of 'ordering' ('commander') something 'together' ('com-') — that's why commandeer means to take control or order something for use.

Visually Confused Words