a. 1. Exercising authority; actually in command; as, a commanding officer. [ 1913 Webster ]
2. Fitted to impress or control; as, a commanding look or presence. [ 1913 Webster ]
3. Exalted; overlooking; having superior strategic advantages; as, a commanding position.
Syn. -- Authoritative; imperative; imperious. [ 1913 Webster ]
adv. In a commanding manner. [ 1913 Webster ]