ENGLISH
REFERENCE

companies

n. · v.
US //ˈkəmpəˌniz// UK //kˈʌmpənɪz// com·pa·nies
  1. 1 businesses (n.)
    A2 Elementary

    organisations that sell goods or services to make money.

    commercial businesses or enterprises. Countable plural form.

    Example

    Many tech companies have offices in this part of the city.

    Example

    Multinational companies often face complex regulatory challenges when expanding their operations into emerging markets.

    Usage

    The plural form of 'company' requires changing the 'y' to 'ies'.
  2. 2 groups of people (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    groups of people who are together, such as in a play or the army.

    multiple groups of individuals, specifically referring to theatrical troupes or military units. Countable plural form.

    Example

    The two dance companies performed together for the first time.

    Example

    During the military exercise, several infantry companies coordinated their movements to secure the perimeter.

    Usage

    Often used in specific professional contexts like the arts or the military.
  3. 3 to accompany (v.)
    C2 Proficiency Archaic Literary

    to go somewhere with someone or spend time with them.

    to accompany or associate with someone. Third-person singular present indicative.

    Example

    He companies with those who share his love for old books.

    Example

    In the classic novel, the protagonist often companies with travelers of questionable character during his journey across the continent.

    Teacher's tip

    This verb form is extremely rare in modern English; students will almost always encounter 'companies' as a plural noun.

Last updated June 19, 2026