Customer

Definition

Customer refers to an individual or entity that purchases goods or services from a business. Customers are typically the recipients of products or services in exchange for payment and play a vital role in the economy by driving demand.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈkʌs.tə.mɚ/
• Respelling: KUS-tuh-mur

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈkʌs.tə.mə/
• Respelling: KUS-tuh-muh

Etymology

The word "customer" originates from the Latin "consuetudo," meaning "habit" or "custom," which evolved through Old French as "coustumier" into Middle English as "custumer." It originally referred to a person who frequented a particular place, eventually coming to mean a buyer of goods or services.

Derivatives

• Custom (noun)
• Customize (verb)
• Customization (noun)
• Customerly (adjective)
• Customer-driven (adjective)

Synonyms

• Client
• Buyer
• Patron

Antonyms

• Seller
• Merchant
• Vendor

Usage

The term "customer" is commonly used to describe individuals who purchase goods or services, often in a retail or business setting. For example, "The customer was satisfied with her purchase." Customers are essential for business success, as they generate revenue and drive market demand.

Related Terms

• Consumer: A person who uses goods and services.
• Client: Someone who receives professional services.
• Purchaser: An individual who buys products or services.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• An individual or entity that purchases goods or services: Refers to the person or organization that engages in a transaction to acquire products or services.
  • Example: "The company focuses on building relationships with every customer."
• A person who regularly frequents a business: Describes a recurring patron or buyer who often returns for products or services.
  • Example: "She has been a loyal customer at the bakery for years."