Commissionaire Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐๏ธ
commissionaire
[kษหmษชสษหner ]
Definitions
job position
A person who is officially appointed to perform certain duties, especially in a hotel or public building.
Synonyms
attendant, commissioned officer, usher.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| commissionaire |
This word is primarily used in British English and refers to a person, usually in uniform, who has the job of providing assistance and security at an establishment like a hotel, theatre, or office building.
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| commissioned officer |
This phrase refers to a member of the military who has earned a commission, typically through completion of officer training. It is specific to military contexts.
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| attendant |
This term generally refers to someone who attends to others' needs in various settings such as car parks, restrooms, or events. It is often used for service roles.
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| usher |
This term is often used for someone who shows people to their seats in venues like theaters, cinemas, or places of worship. It is associated with events and entertainment.
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Examples of usage
- The commissionaire greeted the guests at the hotel entrance.
- The commissionaire helped the visitors with their luggage.
- The commissionaire ensured the security of the building.
military
An officer in the army, navy, or air force holding a rank equivalent to a noncommissioned officer in the US armed forces.
Synonyms
commander, military officer, officer.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| commissionaire |
Typically used in the context of security or building services, often indicating a person responsible for handling tasks like reception, customer service, or light security duties.
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| officer |
This term can be used in a variety of contexts referring to a person with authority, such as in the police force, military, government, or corporate environment. It's a broader term that isn't limited to any one specific field.
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| military officer |
Refers specifically to someone who holds a position of authority in the military, responsible for overseeing the training, welfare, and activities of military personnel.
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| commander |
Best used in a military or authoritative context, denoting a person with high authority or control over a group of people, especially within the armed forces or in significant operations.
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Examples of usage
- He was promoted to the rank of commissionaire after his exceptional service.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Context
- Commissionaires were critical in the development of hospitality industries, especially in cities with high tourism in the 19th and early 20th centuries.
- During World War I, many ex-soldiers became commissionaires, providing them with jobs and reintegrating them into civilian life.
- The role was influenced by military and ceremonial guards, evolving into a position focused on customer service and security.
Global Variations
- In the UK, commissionaires often serve at prominent establishments, blending security with hospitality.
- In Canada, commissionaires are often former military personnel who provide security services across various sectors, including government buildings.
- Different cultures have similar roles, like 'concierge' in French-speaking areas, who handle guest needs in hotels.
Pop Culture
- In films and literature, commissionaires often symbolize authority and elegance, frequently seen in stories set in luxury hotels.
- The portrayal of a commissionaire often embodies qualities such as loyalty, vigilance, and exceptional service, making them iconic characters in settings like grand ballrooms.
- Comedic interpretations in media often play with the stereotype of an overly formal or quirky commissionaire character.
Modern Relevance
- With the rise of technology, the role of commissionaires has evolved, focusing more on customer interaction and less on manual tasks.
- Many contemporary commissionaire positions require training in customer service, conflict resolution, and even crisis management.
- The concept of a commissionaire has led to the development of specialized agencies that train individuals specifically for this role in hospitality.
Origin of 'commissionaire'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'commissionaire' comes from the French word 'commissionner,' meaning to assign or delegate a task.
- Originally, it referred to someone given a commission or authority to act on behalf of others.
- The term gained popularity in the 19th century, particularly in European urban settings where hospitality and support services flourished.
The word 'commissionaire' originated in the mid-19th century from the French word 'commissionnaire,' which referred to a person with a special duty or task. It was initially used in military contexts before expanding to include civilian roles, particularly in customer service and security. Today, 'commissionaire' commonly denotes a person responsible for specific duties or services in various settings.
See also: commissioner, decommissioning.