Merchant Meaning and Definition
Merchant
Pronunciation
/ˈmɜːrtnt/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A person who engages in business, trade, or commerce, especially someone who buys and sells goods or services for profit.
Examples
- The merchant company had been in business for over 50 years.
- He worked as a merchant selling goods at the local market.
Synonyms
- Tailor
- Seller
- Dealer
Antonyms
- Buyer
- Consumer
Etymology
The word “merchant” comes from the Old French “merchant”, which is derived from the Latin “mercans”, meaning “trader” or “businessman”.
Usage Notes
The term “merchant” is often used in the context of international trade, retail, or online commerce. It can also refer to a person who buys and sells goods or services on a regular basis.
Cultural References
The term “merchant” has appeared in various forms of media, including books, movies, and TV shows. For example, in the novel “The Merchant of Venice” by William Shakespeare, the main character Antonio is a merchant.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
A “merchant of death” is a phrase used to describe someone who engages in the destruction or exploitation of people and the environment. A “merchant of hope” is a phrase used to describe someone who spreads hope and positivity.
Related Words or Phrases
- Trader
- Businessman
- Entrepreneur
Collocations
- Merchant ships
- Merchant banking
- Merchant accounts
Frequency of Use
The word “merchant” is relatively common in modern language, especially in the context of business and commerce.
Common Misspellings
- Merchent
- Merchan