English Dictionary

Definition of “enterprise

enterprise (ˈɛntəˌpraɪzPronunciation for enterprise

Definitions

noun

  1. a project or undertaking, esp one that requires boldness or effort
  2. participation in such projects
  3. readiness to embark on new ventures; boldness and energy
    1. initiative in business
    2. ((as modifier)  ⇒ the enterprise culture 
  4. a business unit; a company or firm

Alternative Forms

ˈenterˌpriser noun

Word Origin

C15: from Old French entreprise  (n), from entreprendre  from entre-  between (from Latin: inter-) + prendre  to take, from Latin prehendere to grasp

Usage examples

  • People were excited by the future - by change, enterprise , possibilities.
    Baxter, Stephen, Anti-Ice (1993)
  • Does Sherry, at the end of the enterprise , help us to understand Graham Greene the writer?
    Country Life (2004)
  • Without Mr Ellison, it would not have Oracle's enterprise software.
    Irish Times (2002)
  • Kenny MacAskill, the SNP's enterprise spokesman, said:'I think it is a devastating blow.
    Glasgow Herald (2001)
  • No wonder Labour yesterday promised to unscramble much of the enterprise.
    Boris Johnson, LEND ME YOUR EARS (2003)

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