1. 1. (Abbr. Com.) A commissioned rank formerly used in the U.S. Navy that was above captain and below rear admiral. Abolished in 1899, it was restored temporarily during World War II.
   2. One who holds this rank.
2. Used as an unofficial designation for a captain in the British Navy temporarily in command of a fleet division or squadron.
3. 1. The senior captain of a naval squadron or merchant fleet.
   2. The presiding officer of a yacht club.

[Obsolete commandore, probably from Dutch komandeur, commander, from French commandeur, from Old French, from comander, to command. See command.]

The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition Copyright © 2007, 2000 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Updated in 2009. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.