Definition

A person or company that is hired to do part of a job that another person or company has agreed to do.

Example

The main contractor hired a subcontractor to handle the electrical work on the project.

Conversation

Have you heard about the new subcontractor working on the building project?

Yeah, I heard they specialize in eco-friendly materials.

That's great! I hope they can help speed things up.

For sure, with a good subcontractor, the project should move along smoothly.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Subcontractor → It is formed from "sub-" (meaning under or below) and "contractor" (from Latin "contractor", meaning one who enters into a contract). The word "subcontractor" refers to a person or company that enters into a contract to perform part of the work that another contractor has agreed to complete.

Memory Tip

Think of someone working 'under' ('sub-') the main contractor, fulfilling part of the contract.

Visually Confused Words