A2noun1K

Owner

UK /["/ˈəʊnə(r)/"]/US /["/ˈəʊnər/"]/

Definition

a person who owns something

In simple words: A person who has something.

Examples

  • a dog/pet/gun owner
  • a **business/property/store owner**
  • The painting has been returned to its **rightful owner**.
  • He's now the **proud owner** of a cottage in Wales.
  • Would the owner of the black Mercedes parked in front of the gates please report to reception.
  • They were using the land with the permission of the owner.
  • The car had only one previous owner.
  • Their daughter became the owner of the farm in 1892.

Usage notes

Use 'owner' when referring to someone who possesses something, like a pet or property. Avoid in very casual contexts; 'the owner of the cafe' sounds more formal than 'the cafe's owner'.

Grammar pattern

owner + of + object

Memory hint

Think of an 'o' in owner as in 'owning' something.

Collocations

  • sole
  • part
  • joint
  • have
  • find
  • trace

Synonyms

  • proprietor
  • possessor
  • holder
  • master
  • landlord

Antonyms

  • tenant
  • renter

Common mistakes

  • Using 'own' instead of 'owner' as a noun.
  • Confusing with 'landlord' which is specific to renting property.
  • Saying 'owners' when only one person is intended.