contractor

American  

[kon-trak-ter, kuhn-trak-ter] / ˈkɒn træk tər, kənˈtræk tər /

noun

1. a person who contracts to furnish supplies or perform work at a certain price or rate.

2. something that contracts, especially a muscle.

3. Bridge. the player or team who makes the final bid.

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contractor British  

/ kənˈtræk-, ˈkɒntræktə /

noun

1. a person or firm that contracts to supply materials or labour, esp for building

2. something that contracts, esp a muscle

3. law a person who is a party to a contract

4. the declarer in bridge

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Etymology

Origin of contractor

From Late Latin, dating back to 1540–50; contract, -tor

Example Sentences

Officials recommended choosing more premium fit-out design and wall finishes from the options presented by the chosen contractor.

From BBC • Apr. 3, 2026

BBC News NI approached the contractor to ask how much the options differed in price, but the firm said it was unable to discuss it without permission from the client.

From BBC • Apr. 3, 2026

The company, which incorporated in 2020 and is based in Caldwell, appears to provide contractor services for tiling work.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 31, 2026

The stock fell 33% on Friday after an indictment alleged two employees and one contractor working with the company aimed to transport artificial-intelligence servers containing restricted Nvidia chips to China.

From Barron's • Mar. 26, 2026

The contractor system was abolished in 1884, due in part to these perennial abuses but also because of the opposition of unions.

From "Newjack: Guarding Sing Sing" by Ted Conover