commence

[kuh-mens]

verb (used with or without object)

commenced, commencing 

1. to begin; start.

   Synonyms: originate, initiate, inaugurate

commence

/ kəˈmɛns /

verb

1. to start or begin; come or cause to come into being, operation, etc

Other Word Forms

• commenceable adjective
• commencer noun
• recommence verb

Word History and Origins

Origin of commence¹

First recorded in 1250–1300; Middle English commencen, from Anglo-French, Middle French comencer, from unrecorded Vulgar Latin cominitiāre, equivalent to Latin com- com- + initiāre “to begin”; initiate

Word History and Origins

Origin of commence¹

C14: from Old French comencer, from Vulgar Latin cominitiāre (unattested), from Latin com- (intensive) + initiāre to begin, from initium a beginning

Synonym Study

See begin.

Example Sentences

Crank up the Benny Hill theme song and let the belly laughs commence.

From Los Angeles Times

But major challenges are expected as operations commence in the coming months.

From BBC

Skipper said coaches have commenced a deep dive into the roster to search for players who could provide additional help after the team struggled so mightily in its first three games.

From Los Angeles Times

But the race for flights, hotel reservations and event tickets will begin in 2026, long before the Games commence.

From Los Angeles Times

In a written statement to Parliament, Sir Keir said: "I have now issued a direction to the Commissioner to commence this investigation immediately."

From BBC

Related Words

• begin 
• inaugurate 
• initiate 
• launch 
• take up