What does commenced mean?

the meaning of commenced is to originate, to start or begin. to act as, and or to take a degree from a University.
Some synonyms for the Word "commence" could be begin, start, initiate, inaugurate, instigate, originate, and/or engage.
begin, start; get the ball rolling,get going, get underway, get off the ground, set about, embark on,launch into, lead off; open,initiate, inaugurate; informalkick off, get the show on the road.