# company

/ˈkəmpəˌni/ (US) · /kˈʌmpəni/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/company
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. a business

noun · CEFR A1

an organization that sells products or services to make money.

For teachers: a commercial business or legal entity that manufactures or sells goods or provides services.

- She works for a software company that makes apps for schools.
- The multinational company announced a significant restructuring plan to address the decline in its quarterly profits.

### 2. companionship

noun · CEFR B1

the state of being with other people so you are not alone.

For teachers: the condition of being with others; social companionship.

- I really enjoy your company and hope we can meet again soon.
- After living alone for several years, he found that he truly appreciated the company of his grandchildren during the holidays.

### 3. guests

noun · CEFR B1

people who are visiting your home.

For teachers: guests or visitors in one's home; social callers.

- We are having company for dinner tonight, so I need to clean the house.
- The family rarely had company during the winter months when the mountain roads were frequently blocked by snow.

### 4. military unit

noun · CEFR B2 · Technical

a group of soldiers that is part of a larger army.

For teachers: a military unit, typically consisting of two or more platoons and commanded by a captain.

- The captain led his company across the field during the training exercise.
- The infantry company was deployed to the border to assist with humanitarian efforts and maintain local security.

### 5. theatrical group

noun · CEFR B2

a group of actors or dancers who work together.

For teachers: an ensemble of actors, singers, or dancers who perform together professionally.

- She joined a touring dance company after she finished her training.
- The royal Shakespeare company is renowned for its innovative interpretations of classic early modern dramas.

## Examples

- She works for a large software company in the city.
- After the long hike, they enjoyed each other's company while sitting around the campfire.
- The board of directors decided to restructure the company to improve efficiency, while the CEO emphasized that maintaining a culture of good company among staff remained a priority.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.