late 15c., "ruling, controlling, directing with authority, of great or controlling importance," present-participle adjective from command (v.). Meaning "nobly dignified, compelling respect, characteristic of one fitted for command" is from 1590s. Meaning "dominant by virtue of size or position" is from 1630s. Related: Commandingly (mid-15c.) "imperiously."
a commanding view of the ocean
comma
command
commandant
commandeer
commander
commanding
commandment
commando
comme ci, comme ca
comme il faut
commedia dell'arte