First Known Use: 1534
Dictionary
monopoly
noun mo·nop·o·ly \mə-ˈnä-p(ə-)lē\
: complete control of the entire supply of goods or of a service in a certain area or market
: a large company that has a monopoly
: complete ownership or control of something
plural mo·nop·o·lies
Full Definition of MONOPOLY
1
: exclusive ownership through legal privilege, command of supply, or concerted action
2
: exclusive possession or control
3
: a commodity controlled by one party
4
: one that has a monopoly
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Origin of MONOPOLY
Latin monopolium, from Greek monopōlion, from mon- + pōlein to sell
Other Business Terms
MONOPOLY Defined for Kids
monopoly
noun mo·nop·o·ly \mə-ˈnä-pə-lē\
plural mo·nop·o·lies
Definition of MONOPOLY for Kids
1
: complete ownership or control of the entire supply of goods or a service in a certain market
2
: a person or group having complete control over something <The laws are intended to prevent monopolies.>
3
: complete ownership or control of something <He thinks he has a monopoly on the truth.>
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