stakeholder
/ˈsteɪkˌhoʊldər/A person, group, or organization with a legitimate interest in a project, business, or decision.
Investors, employees, and customers are key stakeholders in the company's success.
Each group plays a role in the company's outcomes and has a vested interest.
The environmental group was invited as a stakeholder to review the construction project.
Their input was considered essential to address community concerns.
Stakeholders can be internal (e.g., employees) or external (e.g., suppliers, regulators).
A person who holds money or property in trust for another.
The court appointed a stakeholder to manage the disputed funds.
The stakeholder ensured fair distribution according to legal procedures.
Less common in modern usage; often replaced by terms like 'trustee' or 'escrow agent'.
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Antonyms
💡Pro Tip
Distinguish from 'shareholder'
'Stakeholder' is broader than 'shareholder'—it includes anyone affected by a decision, not just owners of company shares.
⚡Gold Rule
Identify stakeholders early
In project planning, list all stakeholders (e.g., clients, regulators, employees) to ensure their needs are addressed.
📖Word Origin
From 'stake' (a share or interest in a business) + 'holder' (one who holds). The 'stake' originally referred to a financial investment in a venture, where the holder's money was at risk.
📝Usage Notes
Common in business, project management, and corporate governance. Avoid using for people with no real interest in the outcome.