commandeer

Commandeering is the act of taking possession or control of something by authority, usually for official use in emergencies, military operations, or public service. It can involve property such as vehicles, equipment, or facilities, or personnel such as staff or responders. The action is typically authorized by statute or regulation and is intended to be temporary and related to the public need; compensation or a formal process may be required in some jurisdictions.

Etymology: The term derives from the French commander, meaning to order, and entered English in the sense of seizing or directing property or services for public use.

Common usage includes military requisition, law enforcement actions, and disaster response. In everyday language, to commandeer can also be used figuratively to describe a swift, authoritative taking of resources by a manager or leader, though this usage can carry a sense of intrusion.

Legal context: In the United States, the anti-commandeering doctrine prohibits the federal government from forcing states to implement or enforce federal laws, reflecting the Tenth Amendment separation of powers. In other contexts, national laws regulate when and how authorities may requisition private property, often requiring just compensation or adherence to due process.