Meaning of company in English

1. Pronunciation

   /ˈkəmp(ə)ni/

   US accent

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   UK accent

   How to pronounce company in British English, in context ▾
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1. Verb

   company

   Definitions

   1. be a companion to somebody

2. Noun

   company

   Etymology

   Middle English (in company (sense 2 of the noun, company sense 3 of the noun)): from Old French compainie; related to compaignon (see companion)

   Definitions

   1. an institution created to conduct business

   Examples

   • « he only invests in large well-established companies »
   • « he started the company in his garage »
3. 2. organization of performers and associated personnel (especially theatrical)

   Examples

   • « the traveling company all stayed at the same hotel »
4. 3. the state of being with someone

   Examples

   • « he missed their company »
   • « he enjoyed the society of his friends »
5. 4. small military unit

   Examples

   • « usually two or three platoons »
6. 5. a band of people associated temporarily in some activity

   Examples

   • « they organized a party to search for food »
   • « the company of cooks walked into the kitchen »
7. 6. a social gathering of guests or companions

   Examples

   • « the house was filled with company when I arrived »
8. 7. a social or business visitor

   Examples

   • « the room was a mess because he hadn't expected company »
9. 8. a unit of firefighters including their equipment

   Examples

   • « a hook-and-ladder company »
10. 9. crew of a ship including the officers

    Examples

    • « the whole force or personnel of a ship »