small business

American  

[smawl biz-nis] / ˈsmɔl ˈbɪz nɪs /

noun

1. a profit-seeking enterprise or concern that is independently owned and operated, has a limited number of employees, and is not nationally dominant in its field.

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Etymology

Origin of small business

An Americanism dating back to 1910–15

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

small business

“They look tough and unisex to me, with mild expressions, beautiful clothes, tights, ruffles and sleeves, plus a firearm. It’s a great symbol for being a warrior, especially as a small business owner.”

From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 27, 2026

For instance, co-ops can reduce the risks of trying to go it alone to launch a small business.

From Salon ● Jul. 26, 2026

Moonprint Solutions, a small business, is developing flexible protective covers that shield equipment from the Moon's highly abrasive dust.

From Science Daily ● Jul. 15, 2026

The qualified small business stock exclusion, or QSBS, lets shareholders exclude capital gains from federal income tax.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 29, 2026

But on the whole Mr. Malloy did a steady small business and was happy.

From "Cannery Row" by John Steinbeck