Definition

Related to merchants, trade, or commerce.

Example

The city has a rich mercantile history, with many shops and markets.

Conversation

Have you ever visited that mercantile district downtown?

Yeah, I went there last weekend!

I love how it has so many shops related to trade and culture.

Same here! It's a great place to find unique items.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Mercantile is derived from "mercari" (meaning to trade) and "-tile" (a suffix used to form adjectives). The word refers to things related to trade or commerce.

Memory Tip

Think of 'trading' ('mercari') when you hear 'mercantile' — it relates to commerce and trade.

Visually Confused Words