Etymology and Meaning of "Corporation"
The term "corporation" originates from the Latin word "corpus," meaning "body." It refers to an artificial entity created by law, separate from its individual members, that possesses the capacity to own property, enter into contracts, sue and be sued, and have continuity regardless of changes in its membership.
Origins of Corporations
The earliest known forms of corporations emerged in ancient Rome during the Republic era (509-27 BCE). These entities, known as "collegia," were groups of individuals authorized by the state to carry out specific functions, such as religious ceremonies or public works projects.
Development of Corporations in Europe
During the Middle Ages, the concept of corporations expanded to include guilds, craft brotherhoods, and religious orders. These organizations were granted charters by kings or popes, granting them legal recognition and privileges.
Corporations in England
In England, the development of corporations accelerated during the Tudor period (1485-1603). The crown began granting royal charters to trade companies and other enterprises, giving them exclusive rights to operate in certain areas.
Corporations in the United States
Corporations played a significant role in the economic development of the United States. The first corporation in the colonies was the Massachusetts Bay Company, chartered in 1629. Throughout the 19th century, corporations became increasingly common in the United States, particularly in the fields of transportation, industry, and finance.
Modern Corporations
Today, corporations are a dominant form of business organization globally. They range in size from small family-owned businesses to multinational giants with operations worldwide. Corporations continue to play a vital role in the economies of nations, providing employment, generating wealth, and driving innovation.
Etymology Middle English corporal from Anglo Norman corporal from Latin corporalis
Etymology The term corporate has its origins in the Latin word corpus meaning body
Etymology and Meaning of Corporation The term corporation originates from the Latin w
Etymology Latin corporalis meaning of the body or bodily Root corpus meaning b
Etymology The word corps comes from the Old French word cors which in turn derives
Etymology The word corpse is derived from the Middle English word cors which itself
Etymology Old French corpulence Latin corpulentia from corpulentus fat fleshy P
Etymology The word corpulent is derived from the Latin word corpus meaning body
Etymology and Meaning of Corpus The word corpus originates from the Latin term corpu
Etymology The word corpuscle is derived from the Latin word corpusculum meaning li
Etymology The word corsage is derived from the French word corsage which refers to
Etymology The word corset is derived from the Old French word cors meaning body
Etymology Incorporeal derives from two Latin words In prefix meaning not or w
Etymology The word etymology is derived from the Greek word etymon which means true
Etymology The word leprechaun originates from the Old Irish word luchorpán which i
Etymology Middle English mydref 13th century Old English middref 11th century Pro
Etymology Incorporate comes from the Late Latin word incorporare meaning to embody or
Etymology The term corporate has its origins in the Latin word corpus meaning body
Etymology The word fridge is a shortened form of refrigerator Meaning A fridge i
Etymology From Middle French syndic sindic from Latin syndicus from Ancient Greek σ
Etymology The word syndicate comes from the Ancient Greek word συνδικός synd
Etymology The word conglomerate comes from the Late Latin conglomeratus meaning ro
Etymology Late Latin imperium dominion Latin imperare to command Proto Indo E
Etymology The word house has an Indo European root h₁eu̯s This root also gave r