establishments

Noun

establishment (countable and uncountable, plural establishments)

1. The act or process of establishing; a ratifying or ordaining; settlement; confirmation.
   • Since their establishment of the company in 1984, they have grown into a global business.

   Synonyms:

   foundation

   Antonyms:

   abolition

2. The state of being established, founded, etc.; fixed state.
   • The firm celebrated twenty years since their establishment by updating their look.
3. That which is established; as a form of government, a permanent organization, business or force, or the place where one is permanently fixed for residence.
   • Pedro's is a fine establishment serving a variety of delicious food.

   Synonyms:

   foundation

4. The ruling class or authority group in a society; especially, an entrenched authority dedicated to preserving the status quo.
   • It was clear that they viewed the British establishment as qualitatively different from the French establishment.
5. The number of staff required to run a department or organisation (often used in the context of healthcare and other public services).
   • The cancer department has an establishment of 10 doctors and 30 nurses.
6. The institution and official status of a church as a state church, especially that of the Church of England and historically of Ireland.
   • Not all Anglicans have supported establishment.

   Antonyms:

   disestablishment

See all 7 meanings of establishment