noun
proprietor
pruh-PRYE-uh-ter/prəˈpraɪətər/
A person who owns a business or property.
The bakery's proprietor unlocks her shop for the morning.
Etymology
Probably formed from proprietary, meaning an owner, proprietor first referred to someone granted an American colony. Its meaning broadened to anyone holding property or an exclusive legal title.
In context
She was the actively managing proprietor on the front lines of her business.
More examples
- The proprietor of the vacant lot agrees to sell it.
- Several local proprietors keep their shops open late on Fridays.
- As sole proprietor, Maya makes every decision for her bakery.
Forms
proprietor · proprietors
proprietorship noun — Ownership of a business or property.