Capitalist

Definition

Capitalist refers to an individual who supports or engages in capitalism, an economic system where trade, industry, and the means of production are largely or entirely privately owned and operated for profit. A capitalist may also refer to a person who has capital, especially someone who invests it in business ventures.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈkæpɪtəlɪst/
• Respelling: KAP-uh-tuh-list

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈkæpɪtəlɪst/
• Respelling: KAP-uh-tuh-list

The pronunciation of "capitalist" is consistent in both American and British English, with the emphasis placed on the first syllable.

Etymology

The word "capitalist" is derived from the word "capital," which itself comes from the Latin word "capitalis," meaning "of the head" or "chief." The term "capitalist" emerged in the mid-17th century to describe a person who possesses wealth or assets, particularly in the context of the economic system of capitalism.

Derivatives

• Capitalism (noun)
• Capitalistic (adjective)
• Capitalization (noun)
• Capitalize (verb)
• Capital (noun)

Synonyms

• Entrepreneur
• Investor
• Financier

Antonyms

• Socialist
• Communist
• Proletarian

Usage

The word "capitalist" is used to describe someone who participates in or advocates for the economic system of capitalism. For example, "The capitalist invested heavily in the new tech startup," or "As a capitalist, she believes in the power of free markets." The term can also be used more broadly to describe any person who has accumulated capital and invests it to generate wealth.

Related Terms

• Free market: An economic system in which prices are determined by unrestricted competition between privately owned businesses.
• Wealth: An abundance of valuable resources or material possessions, often associated with capitalists.
• Private ownership: The ownership of property by non-governmental legal entities.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• An individual who supports or engages in capitalism: Refers to someone who believes in or benefits from the principles of capitalism, such as private property and profit-driven enterprises.
  • Example: "The capitalist argued that deregulation would lead to greater economic growth."
• A person who invests capital, especially in a business venture: Indicates someone who uses their financial resources to invest in businesses or other economic activities to generate profit.
  • Example: "The capitalist provided the initial funding needed to launch the company."

Adjective

• Relating to capitalism or capitalists: Used to describe something that pertains to or is characteristic of capitalism or those who practice it.
  • Example: "The capitalist economy relies on private ownership and market competition."