proprietor

Proprietor refers to the owner of a business, property, or other asset who holds legal title and exercises control over its operation or use. In everyday language, a proprietor is the person who runs a private enterprise and receives its profits while bearing its risks. The term is common in British English and widely understood in American English, typically for small, independently owned shops, inns, restaurants, or similar enterprises.

In business law, a sole proprietor is someone who owns and operates a business as an individual, with no separate legal entity between owner and business. This form, known as a sole proprietorship, generally involves unlimited personal liability for business debts. The proprietor may hire employees and enter into contracts, but personal assets can be at risk for obligations arising from the business.

In property law, the proprietor is the legal holder of title to land or buildings. Proprietary rights include the ability to dispose of or encumber the asset, subject to applicable laws, leases, liens, and other encumbrances. The term emphasizes ownership and control over the asset rather than mere occupancy or tenancy.

Etymology and usage: proprietary derives from Old French proprietaire, from Latin proprius meaning “one’s own.” The feminine form proprietress has historical usage but is uncommon today; proprietor is generally treated as gender-neutral in modern English. Related terms include owner, holder, and titleholder.