Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ˈkɒn.træk.tər/ (CON-trak-tor) - British English

/ˈkɑːn.træk.tɚ/ (CON-trak-ter) - American English

Definitions

• A person or company that undertakes a contract to provide materials or labor for construction, maintenance, or other services.
• A person who agrees to provide services under a contract for a specified period.

Usage Examples

• "The contractor completed the building ahead of schedule."
• "She hired an independent contractor to redesign the website."

Etymology

Derived from the Latin 'contractus,' meaning 'drawn together' or 'agreement.'

Synonyms

• Builder
• Developer
• Freelancer
• Consultant

Antonyms

• Employee
• Client

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• British English: /ˈkɒn.træk.tər/
• American English: /ˈkɑːn.træk.tɚ/
• Australian English: /ˈkɒn.træk.tə/

Historical Usage

The term 'contractor' has been in use since the 16th century to describe individuals or companies fulfilling contractual obligations, particularly in construction and military supply.

Cultural Nuances

In the modern workforce, 'contractor' often refers to a self-employed individual who works on specific projects rather than as a full-time employee, influencing labor laws and tax structures.

More Information

Contractors play an essential role in various industries, including construction, IT, and consulting. Governments and corporations frequently employ contractors to complete specialized work efficiently. Independent contractors must manage their taxes and benefits, making them distinct from regular employees.