1 [+ obj] : to do (something that is illegal or harmful)
▪ commit [=perpetrate] a crime ▪ commit suicide/murder/rape/adultery ▪ The massacre was committed by the rebel army. 2 [+ obj] : to decide to use (a person, money, etc.) for some particular purpose or use — often + to or for ▪ The army committed two divisions to the battle. ▪ The city committed millions of dollars for the housing project. 3 : to say that (someone or something) will definitely do something : to make (someone or something) obligated to do something [+ obj] ▪ I've committed myself to a meeting on Thursday. = I'm committed to a meeting on Thursday. [=I have said that I will definitely go to a meeting on Thursday] ▪ The contract commits the company to finishing the bridge by next fall. ▪ He keeps delaying his decision because he doesn't want to commit himself. [no obj] ▪ Many companies are reluctant to commit to the new technology. [=to say that they will definitely use it] ▪ They have not yet committed to a particular course of action. 4 : to decide to give your love, support, or effort to someone or something in a serious or permanent way [no obj] ▪ My girlfriend just can't seem to commit! [+ obj] ▪ He won't commit himself to a long-term relationship. ▪ Many local officials have not yet committed themselves to a presidential candidate. ▪ They are committing themselves to the pursuit of truth. 5 [+ obj] : to cause (someone) to be put in a prison or a mental hospital — usually used as (be) committed ▪ She was committed to a state mental hospital. 6 [+ obj] Brit, law : to order (someone) to be tried in a court of law
▪ The magistrate committed him to stand trial at the Bristol Crown Court.