# investor

/ˌɪnˈvɛstɝ/ (US) · /ɪnvˈɛstɐ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/investor
Updated: 2026-05-02

## Definition

a person or company that puts money into a business or project to make a profit later. You become an investor when you buy stocks or property hoping the value will go up.

For teachers: a person or entity that commits capital to an enterprise, project, or financial instrument with the expectation of achieving a financial return.

## Examples

- The new startup is looking for a private investor to fund its growth.
- After the company reported record profits, every major investor decided to hold onto their shares instead of selling.
- Institutional investors often exert significant influence over corporate governance by leveraging their substantial equity stakes to demand greater transparency and more sustainable long-term strategies from the board of directors.

## Usage notes

- Often categorized by adjectives such as 'institutional', 'private', or 'angel' to specify the source of capital.

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