dealership

UK: ˈdiːləʃɪp | US: ˈdiːlərʃɪp

Definition

  1. n. a business authorized to sell specific goods or services, especially vehicles

  2. n. the position or authority of a dealer

Structure
dealer <one who deals>ship <noun suffix denoting state or condition>
Etymology

The word "dealership" combines "dealer," derived from Old English dǣlan (to divide, distribute), with the suffix "-ship," from Old English -scipe (state, condition). Originally, a "dealer" was someone who distributed goods, and "-ship" formalized the role or status. By the 19th century, "dealership" emerged to describe businesses with exclusive sales rights, particularly in the automotive industry.

Examples

  1. She owns a car dealership in downtown Chicago.

  2. The dealership offered a warranty on all new vehicles.

  3. He applied for a job at the local Ford dealership.

  4. The dealership expanded its services to include repairs.

  5. Their family has run the dealership for three generations.