Proprietress

A proprietress is a woman who owns and operates a business or establishment. The term emphasizes both ownership and control of the enterprise, and it is the feminine counterpart to "proprietor."

Etymology: The word comes from the French propriétaire meaning owner, with English adoption of the feminine suffix -ess. It dates from at least the 16th century and has appeared in a range of contexts from shops to inns.

Usage: In contemporary prose, "proprietor" is often used as a gender-neutral term and is generally preferred in formal writing. "Proprietress" may be heard in historical works or in stylistic choices that purposefully evoke a traditional or old-fashioned tone.

Context: Proprietresses have historically managed cash flow, customer relations, and daily operations, and in small communities they may also be prominent local figures. The term does not imply a specific level of wealth or status beyond ownership.

See also: Proprietor, Proprietorship, innkeeper, business owner.