Founder

Definition

The founder typically refers to a person who establishes an institution or settlement or, alternatively, the sinking or collapse of something.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈfaʊndər/
• Respelling: FOWN-der (with "FOWN" as in "found" and "der" as in "her")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈfaʊndə/
• Respelling: FOWN-duh (with "FOWN" as in "found" and "duh" as in "sofa")

In both dialects, "founder" places the primary stress on the first syllable, "FOWN." The pronunciation is similar across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of "FOWN-der" in American English and "FOWN-duh" in British English.

Etymology

The word "founder" as a noun comes from the Middle English word "foundour," derived from the Old French "fondeur," which is based on the Latin "fundator," meaning "one who establishes or founds." The verb "to founder" comes from the Old French "fondrer," which also stems from Latin, specifically "fundare," meaning "to lay the bottom or foundation." Both uses of the word have been present in English since the Middle Ages.

Derivatives

• Foundation (noun)
• Founding (adjective/noun)
• Founded (verb, past tense)
• Refound (verb)
• Cofounder (noun)

Synonyms

• Establisher
• Originator
• Creator
• Sink (for the verb)

Antonyms

• Float (for the verb)
• Dissolve
• Disband

Usage

The noun "founder" is commonly used in contexts where an individual is recognized for establishing an organization, institution, or company. It is often used to honor the visionaries behind significant ventures or movements. The verb "founder," on the other hand, is used to describe a situation where something fails, collapses, or sinks, particularly in projects or structures.

Related Terms

• Establishment
• Foundation
• Beginnings
• Inception
• Initiation

Detailed Definition

Noun

• The Creator or Originator of an Institution or Organization: Refers to the individual who initiates or establishes a significant entity, such as a company, organization, or movement.
  • Example: Steve Jobs was one of the founders of Apple Inc., revolutionizing the technology industry.

• One Who Lays the Foundation: In a broader sense, it refers to someone who starts something that others continue to build upon.
  • Example: The founders of the university envisioned an institution that would serve future generations.

‍Verb

• To Sink or Go Under: Used particularly in a nautical context or in reference to structures, to describe something that sinks or collapses.
  • Example: The ship foundered in the storm, sinking to the bottom of the ocean.

• To Fail in an Undertaking: Refers to the failure or collapse of a project, venture, or plan.
  • Example: The new business foundered after just a year due to poor management and lack of funding.