private company

noun

: a company under British law restricting the right of its stockholders to transfer their shares, limiting its members to 50 exclusive of shareholders who are present or former employees, and not inviting the public to subscribe for any shares or debentures

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now