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DictionarycommandantMilitary officer in charge
noun

commandant

KAH-muhn-dant/ˈkɑːməndænt/

An officer in command of a military organization or establishment.

The commandant addresses the recruits at the academy.

A uniformed officer stands before assembled soldiers and directs their formation while all ranks face him for orders, showing the officer in charge of the military institution.
Etymology
commandFrenchto order
+antFrenchpresent participle ending

Commander with -ant gives “commanding,” which became a noun meaning “the one commanding.” That description became a title for the officer in charge, especially of a fortified town or garrison.

In context

The Uptake by Bridgemakers1:51
General Dunford, we've relied on you as Commandant of the Marine Corps, as our commander
Obama's Farewell To The Troops- Full Speech
U.S. Department of State1:03
from retirement as commandant of the United States Coast Guard after a brilliant career
Secretary Kerry at Opening of Global Leadership in the Arctic #GLACIER

More examples

  • The commandant inspected the base.
  • Several commandants attended the conference.
  • She reported directly to the commandant.

Forms

commandant · commandants

Similar words

commander
Commander is broader than an officer heading a particular establishment.
chief
Chief need not hold military command.