chamber of commerce

American  

noun

1. an association, primarily of people in business, to promote the commercial interests of an area. C of C

---

chamber of commerce British  

noun

1. (sometimes capitals) an organization composed mainly of local businessmen to promote, regulate, and protect their interests

---

Etymology

Origin of chamber of commerce

First recorded in 1780–90

Example Sentences

Valy, who serves on the board of Laos' chamber of commerce, may have been allowed more space to speak out due to her business background, said the development worker, who requested anonymity for security reasons.

From Barron's • Feb. 20, 2026

“Inflationary pressures continue to be contained despite added costs related to the reconfiguration of trade,” Macklem said in remarks before Montreal’s chamber of commerce.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 16, 2025

While Sioux City leaders had largely stayed mum, the local chamber of commerce was brokering a deal to drop the charges.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 26, 2025

Valencia's chamber of commerce estimated that 48,000 companies have been affected.

From BBC • Dec. 21, 2024

A smaller limousine delivered the Coconut Cove mayor, Councilman Bruce Grandy, and the chamber of commerce president to the construction site.

From "Hoot" by Carl Hiaasen