- shoulder arms
- Command Com*mand", n.
1. An authoritative order requiring obedience; a mandate; an
injunction.
[1913 Webster]
Awaiting what command their mighty chief Had to impose. --Milton. [1913 Webster]
2. The possession or exercise of authority. [1913 Webster]
Command and force may often create, but can never cure, an aversion. --Locke. [1913 Webster]
3. Authority; power or right of control; leadership; as, the forces under his command. [1913 Webster]
4. Power to dominate, command, or overlook by means of position; scope of vision; survey. [1913 Webster]
The steepy stand Which overlooks the vale with wide command. --Dryden. [1913 Webster]
5. Control; power over something; sway; influence; as, to have command over one's temper or voice; the fort has command of the bridge. [1913 Webster]
He assumed an absolute command over his readers. --Dryden. [1913 Webster]
6. A body of troops, or any naval or military force or post, or the whole territory under the authority or control of a particular officer. [1913 Webster]
{Word of command} (Mil.), a word or phrase of definite and established meaning, used in directing the movements of soldiers; as, {aim}; {fire}; {shoulder arms}, etc.
Syn: Control; sway; power; authority; rule; dominion; sovereignty; mandate; order; injunction; charge; behest. See {Direction}. [1913 Webster]
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English. 2000.