Enterprise

Pronunciation

• IPA: /ˈɛntɹ̩pɹɑjz/, ˈɛɾ̃ɹ̩pɹɑjz

Alternative forms

• enterprize chiefly archaic
• entreprise chiefly archaic

Origin

From Old French via Middle English and Middle French entreprise, feminine past participle of entreprendre ("to undertake"), from entre ("in between") + prendre ("to take"), from Latin inter + prehendō, see prehensile.

Full definition of enterprise

Noun

1. A company, business, organization, or other purposeful endeavor.The (GSEs) are a group of financial services corporations which have been created by the United States Congress.A micro-enterprise is defined as a business having 5 or fewer employees and a low seed capital.
2. An undertaking or project, especially a daring and courageous one.Biosphere 2 was a scientific enterprise aimed at the exploration of the complex web of interactions within life systems.
3. A willingness to undertake new or risky projects; energy and initiative.He has shown great enterprise throughout his early career.
4. an active participation in projects

Synonyms

• initiative

Derived terms

• enterprising
• commercial enterprise
• scientific enterprise

Verb

1. (intransitive) To undertake an enterprise, or something hazardous or difficult.
2. (transitive) To undertake; to begin and attempt to perform; to venture upon.
• DrydenThe business must be enterprised this night.
• T. OtwayWhat would I not renounce or enterprise for you!
3. (transitive) To treat with hospitality; to entertain.
• SpenserHim at the threshold met, and well did enterprise.