Definition

A person or entity that owns shares in a company, giving them a claim on part of the company's assets and earnings.

Example

As a stockholder, she received dividends from the company's profits.

Conversation

Did you hear about the new stockholder meeting next week?

Yeah, I heard they plan to discuss some big changes.

I wonder if it will affect our shares as stockholders.

It might! We should definitely keep an eye on what they decide.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Stockholder → It is formed from "stock" (from Old English *stocc*, meaning a tree trunk or a supply) and "holder" (from Old English *holdan*, meaning to keep or possess). A stockholder is someone who possesses a share or supply of a company.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who 'keeps' or 'possesses' ('holder') a 'supply' ('stock') in a company — that's what a stockholder is.

Visually Confused Words