Definition of the word commissioner

The word "commissioner" has its roots in 14th-century Middle English. It comes from the Old French word "commis," meaning "delegated," and the Latin phrase "commisarius," meaning "joint manager." Initially, the term referred to a person who was entrusted with a task or duty on behalf of another, often a lord or a king. In the 16th century, the term "commissioner" gained popularity in the context of naval warfare, where it referred to an officer tasked with overseeing a ship's voyage or expedition. Over time, the term expanded to include various roles, such as law enforcement, public administration, and diplomacy. Today, a commissioner can be a high-ranking official in a government agency, a law enforcement officer, or even a sports official, among other roles. Throughout its evolution, the word "commissioner" has retained its core meaning – a person entrusted with specific duties or responsibilities on behalf of another.