Definition of the word corporate

The word "corporate" has its roots in Latin. It comes from the word "corpus," which means "body." In medieval times, a corporate body referred to a group of people who were joined together for a common purpose, such as a corporation, guild, or monastery. This sense of a collective entity with its own identity and purpose has persisted to this day. In the 16th century, the term "corporate" began to be used to describe a company or organization that was granted special rights and privileges by the state. This could include the power to enter into contracts, own property, and make decisions independently of the individuals who composed the organization. Over time, the term "corporate" has taken on a broader meaning, encompassing not just companies and organizations, but also the values, attitudes, and practices that are associated with them, such as profit-making, competition, and decision-making by experts.