enterprise

en-ter-prise · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A business or company, especially a large or important one.

  2. 2.

    A project or undertaking, typically one that is difficult or requires effort.

  3. 3.

    Initiative and resourcefulness in business or other ventures.

Forms

plural: enterprises

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    free enterprise — an economic system with minimal government intervention
  • •
    enterprise zone — an area with special incentives for business development
  • •
    private enterprise — business activities owned and run by individuals

Related words

See also: business, company, enterprises
Synonyms: business, company, undertaking, venture

Etymology

From Old French entreprise ("an undertaking"), from the past participle of entreprendre ("to undertake"), from entre- ("between, among") + prendre ("to take"), from Latin prehendere ("to seize").