private enterprise

noun

: free enterprise

Examples of private enterprise in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Climate is not the only arena where courts are being asked to resolve the social costs of private enterprise. — Nicolas S. Rohatyn, Mercury News, 16 Apr. 2026 Alpha-gal was more of a private enterprise, another rumor contends. — Burkhard Bilger, New Yorker, 29 June 2026 Tuesday’s announcement means those private enterprises could start selling gasoline and diesel to the public. — Nora Gámez Torres, Miami Herald, 13 May 2026 Under the reforms, foreign investors are no longer required to form joint ventures with the state, large private enterprises will be authorized, and both Cuban and foreign investors will be allowed to acquire stakes in state companies. — CBS News, 19 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for private enterprise

Word History

First Known Use

1789, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of private enterprise was in 1789

Rhymes for private enterprise

See All Rhymes for private enterprise

Browse Nearby Words

private detective
private enterprise
private equity
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Private enterprise.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/private%20enterprise. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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