n. 1. a. A commissioned rank formerly used in the US Navy that was above captain and below rear admiral. Abolished in 1899, it was restored temporarily during World War II and in the early 1980s. b. One who holds this rank. c. Used as an honorary title for a captain in the US Navy in command of a fleet division or squadron. 2. a. The senior captain of a naval squadron or merchant fleet. b. 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.] |
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