Commercial means relating to business, trade, or making money. A commercial building is one used for business rather than as a home. A commercial pilot flies planes for an airline that charges passengers, unlike a hobbyist who flies for fun. When a fisherman has a commercial fishing license, it means they're catching fish to sell for profit.

The word also refers to advertisements on television or radio. These short commercials try to convince viewers to buy products or services. Companies pay television or radio stations to show their commercials during popular programs, which is why you might see or hear the same ads repeatedly. A commercial break is when a show pauses so these advertisements can play.

Something described as commercial can also mean it's designed to appeal to many people and make money. A commercial movie aims for box office success with a broad audience, while an art film might take creative risks that fewer people will enjoy. This isn't necessarily criticism: commercial success means people valued something enough to pay for it. A musician might release a very commercial album with catchy songs, then later create something more personal and experimental.