The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook

✔ Add 3,700 must-know words to your vocabulary.

✔ All-in-one: dictionary, thesaurus, & workbook.

✔ 147 categorized lessons, 428 practical activities.

✔ Suitable for students & professionals of all ages.

✔ Ideal preparation for: TOEFL, TOEIC, IELTS, SAT, ACT, GRE, GMAT, CPE, BEC, PTE, FCE

Buy on Amazon

4.8

Improve Your Vocabulary Today!

mercantile

adjective

/ˈməːk(ə)ntʌɪl/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of mercantile

Relating to or is associated with trade, commerce, or business activities, particularly those involving the buying, selling, or exchange of goods and services.
"The mercantile exchange served as a hub for trading commodities."

Detailed meaning of mercantile

When something is described as mercantile, it implies a connection to economic transactions, marketplaces, or the commercial aspects of society. For example, a "mercantile district" might refer to an area known for its concentration of shops and businesses, while "mercantile practices" would encompass various methods and strategies employed in trade. The term is rooted in the concept of mercantilism, an economic theory and practice that emphasizes accumulating wealth through trade, which was prominent in Europe during the early modern period. In essence, "mercantile" signifies a focus on business and trade-related matters, reflecting the economic and commercial dimensions of a given context.

Example sentences containing mercantile

1. The mercantile companies of Europe were the driving force behind colonial expansion.
2. The mercantile industry saw rapid growth during the industrial revolution.
3. The town flourished due to its thriving mercantile trade.
4. They operated a mercantile business, selling a variety of goods.
5. The mercantile class played a significant role in the economy.
6. They admired the grandeur of the mercantile buildings in the historic district.

History and etymology of mercantile

The adjective 'mercantile' has its roots in the Latin word 'mercantilis,' which pertains to trade or commerce. This term evolved over time and was adopted into Old French as 'mercantile,' where it continued to signify matters related to trade and business. Eventually, it made its way into the English language in the late Middle Ages, maintaining its association with commerce and trade. In contemporary usage, 'mercantile' describes anything connected with commercial activities, such as mercantile law, mercantile districts, or mercantile enterprises, emphasizing the economic aspects of business and trade.

Quiz: Find the meaning of the adjective mercantile:

answer1

answer2

answer3

answer4

Try Again!

Correct!

Continue Quiz

Further usage examples of mercantile

1. The mercantile system encouraged international commerce and exploration.
2. They learned about the mercantile practices of different cultures.
3. They were impressed by the efficiency of the mercantile logistics.
4. The mercantile industry saw rapid growth during the industrial revolution.
5. They studied the impact of mercantile policies on colonial economies.
6. The mercantile center attracted merchants from far and wide.
7. They explored the rich history of the mercantile guilds.
8. The mercantile economy fueled urbanization and development.
9. They participated in a mercantile fair, showcasing their locally crafted products.
10. The mercantile route connected distant regions and cultures.
11. They read books about the rise and fall of mercantile empires.
12. The mercantile marketplace buzzed with activity and negotiations.
13. They studied the intricacies of the mercantile financial systems.
14. The mercantile era brought both prosperity and inequality.
15. They appreciated the entrepreneurial spirit of the mercantile merchants.