commandeer

[kom-uhn-deer]

verb (used with object)

1. to order or force into active military service.

2. to seize (private property) for military or other public use.

   The police officer commandeered a taxi and took off after the getaway car.

3. to seize arbitrarily.

commandeer

/ ˌkɒmənˈdɪə /

verb

1. to seize for public or military use

2. to seize arbitrarily

Word History and Origins

Origin of commandeer¹

1880–85; < Afrikaans kommandeer < French commander to command

Word History and Origins

Origin of commandeer¹

C19: from Afrikaans kommandeer, from French commander to _command

Example Sentences

One more thing: Because they haven’t lived through it, many might be surprised how close to the surface are contingencies that would totally commandeer the U.S. economy and politics for the next few years.

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All my attention, however, is quickly commandeered by Autumn when she shudders on the ground.

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The Deltas also commandeered at least 200 ranches in the region, driving out families and transforming their homes into outposts and lookouts.

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But even when Palestinians do that, settlers often come out to block them anyway, and they’ve commandeered areas that never required coordination in the past.

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His dining table and buffet have been commandeered by Lego sets built by him and three of his children, as has his office.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• confiscate 
• hijack