Definition

A place where food and supplies are sold, often found in military bases or film studios, or a person assigned to carry out a specific duty.

Example

The soldiers went to the commissary to buy groceries and other supplies.

Conversation

Have you ever been to the commissary on the base?

Yeah, I go there all the time for snacks and groceries.

I heard they have some really good deals at the commissary.

Absolutely! It's way cheaper than regular stores.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Commissary → It is formed from "com-" (meaning together) and "missus" (the past participle of "mittere", meaning to send). The word originally referred to someone who is sent together with others, often in a military context, to provide supplies or support.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who is 'sent together' ('com-') to provide support or supplies — that's what a commissary does.

Visually Confused Words