compagnies

Compagnies is the plural form of the French noun compagnie, meaning a group organized for a common purpose or activity. In French, a compagnie can refer to a business entity (a company), a military unit, or a group operating in the arts or other activities. The term is used across contexts to denote an organized body of people working together under a shared objective.

In English usage, the form "compagnies" is uncommon except in historical writing or when referring to specific French organizations or names. The corresponding English terms are typically "companies" for business entities, or "company" for a military unit or a performing troupe. In historical and literary contexts, you may encounter references to French military companies or to theatre or opera compa­nies that retain the original French spelling in proper names.

Common senses of the term include:

- Business: a company or firm, with the plural indicating multiple such entities.

- Military: a company as a unit within a regiment or battalion, often commanded by a captain and consisting of several platoons.

- Performing arts: a theatre, ballet, or opera company, referring to a group of performers and staff that produces work.

Etymology and usage notes: the word originates in French and shares a root with the English word "company." In modern French, the singular is compagnie and the plural is compagnies. In English, usage of the plural as "compagnies" is mainly seen in historical writing, translations, or as part of proper names.