franchise

fran-chise · noun/verb

imported

Definitions

noun/verb

  1. 1.

    A business authorization granted by a company to an individual or group to sell its products or services using its name and operating system.

  2. 2.

    To grant a franchise license to someone.

  3. 3.

    The right to vote in political elections.

  4. 4.

    A series of related films, books, or other media sharing common elements.

  5. 5.

    (sports) A professional sports team, especially in American leagues.

Forms

plural: franchises

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    franchise player — the star player who represents a sports team
  • •
    franchise fee — the cost paid to obtain a franchise license
  • •
    franchise agreement — the contract between franchisor and franchisee

Related words

See also: franchisee, franchisor, license
Synonyms: authorization, dealership, license, right

Etymology

From Old French franchise ("freedom, privilege"), from franc ("free"). Originally referred to a special privilege or right granted by a sovereign.