Contractor

Definition

Contractor refers to an individual or company that is hired to perform work or provide services for another entity under the terms of a contract. Contractors are often independent and are typically not considered permanent employees of the organization for which they work.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈkɒntræktər/
• Respelling: KON-trak-ter

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /kənˈtræktər/
• Respelling: kuhn-TRAK-ter

The pronunciation of "contractor" differs slightly between American and British English, especially in stress placement and the pronunciation of the first syllable.

Etymology

The word "contractor" is derived from the Latin word "contractus," meaning "agreement" or "drawn together." It comes from the verb "contrahere," meaning "to draw together or make an agreement." The term entered the English language in the 17th century, originally referring to one who enters into a contract or agreement.

Derivatives

• Contract (noun, verb)
• Contractual (adjective)
• Subcontractor (noun)
• Contracting (verb)
• Contractually (adverb)

Synonyms

• Builder
• Freelancer
• Supplier

Antonyms

• Employee
• Permanent worker
• Full-time staff

Usage

The word "contractor" is used to describe individuals or organizations hired for specific tasks under a contractual agreement. For example, "The company hired a construction contractor to build the new office," or "As an independent contractor, she managed multiple projects for various clients." Contractors are typically used in industries such as construction, IT, and consulting.

Related Terms

• Outsource: To obtain goods or services from an outside or foreign supplier, especially in place of an internal source.
• Consultant: A person who provides expert advice professionally.
• Freelance: A person who works independently, typically selling their services to multiple organizations rather than being employed by one company.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• An individual or business hired to perform specific tasks under contract: Refers to an entity providing services or labor under a legal agreement without being a full-time employee.
  • Example: "The construction contractor completed the project on time."
• A professional who provides specialized services to clients: Contractors often work on a temporary basis to fulfill specific client needs.
  • Example: "She worked as a design contractor for multiple startups."