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n. 1. a. The act of granting certain powers or the authority to carry out a particular task or duty. b. The authority so granted. c. The matter or task so authorized: Investigation of fraud was their commission. d. A document conferring such authorization. 2. a. A public board or administrative body: The Federal Trade Commission investigates false advertising. b. often Commission A ruling council within the Mafia that adjudicates family disputes and regulates family activities. 3. The act of committing or perpetrating: the commission of a crime. 4. A fee or percentage allowed to a sales representative or an agent for services rendered. 5. a. An official document issued by a government, conferring on the recipient the rank of a commissioned officer in the armed forces. b. The rank and powers so conferred. tr.v. com·mis·sioned, com·mis·sion·ing, com·mis·sions Idioms: 1. To grant a military commission to. 2. a. To grant authority for (something to be made or done); place an order for: commission a new symphony for the festival. b. To authorize or engage (someone to do something): commission an architect to design a building. See Synonyms at authorize. 3. To put (a ship) into active service. in commission 1. In active service. Used of a ship. 2. In use or in usable condition. on commission With a sales commission serving as full or partial recompense for the work done: sells boats on commission. out of commission 1. Not in active service. Used of a ship. 2. Not in use or working condition. [Middle English commissioun, from Latin commissiō, commissiōn-, from commissus, past participle of committere, to entrust; see COMMIT.] com·mission·a·ble adj. com·mission·al adj. |
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