prospectus

American  

[pruh-spek-tuhs] / prəˈspɛk təs /

noun

plural

prospectuses

1. a document describing the major features of a proposed literary work, project, business venture, etc., in enough detail so that prospective investors, participants, or buyers may evaluate it.

   Don't buy the new stock offering until you read the prospectus carefully.

2. a brochure or other document describing the major features, attractions, or services of a place, institution, or business to prospective patrons, clients, owners, or members.

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prospectus British  

/ prəˈspɛktəs /

noun

1. a formal statement giving details of a forthcoming event, such as the publication of a book or an issue of shares

2. a pamphlet or brochure giving details of courses, as at a college or school

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Etymology

Origin of prospectus

1770–80; < Latin prōspectus outlook, view, equivalent to prōspec-, stem of prōspicere ( prō- pro- ¹ + -spicere, combining form of specere to look) + -tus suffix of v. action

Example Sentences

There has been rising investor enthusiasm Wednesday for SpaceX after a report in the Information that the Elon Musk-controlled company could file a prospectus for its IPO as early as this week.

From Barron's • Mar. 26, 2026

According to the fund’s prospectus, shares purchased prior to Feb. 20 are subject to a six-month lockup period, which limits the liquidity of the fund.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 25, 2026

Tuesday, The Information reported External link that SpaceX could file its IPO prospectus as soon as this week.

From Barron's • Mar. 25, 2026

He said the Foundation Medicine material he shared was public or included in the company’s prospectus.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 18, 2026

My school'd boast about us in their prospectus but I'd never, ever, ever come back to muddy Worcestershire.

From "Black Swan Green" by David Mitchell

Related Words

• catalogue
• syllabus