Company

(kŭm'pa-ny̆), n. [Fr. compagnie, Pr. companhia, companha, Sp. compania, Pg. companhia, It. compagnia, from O. Fr. & Pr. compaing, companh, &c. See supra.] 1. The state of being a companion; the act of accompanying; fellowship; society. Brethren, farewell: your company along I will not wish, lest it, perhaps, offend them To see me girt with friends. Milton. 2. An assemblage or association of persons, either permanent or transient; as, a company of priests. We have safely found Our king and company. Shak. 3. An assemblage or association of persons for mutual entertainment; and hence, guests, in distinction from the members of a family; society. Nature has left every man a capacity of being agreeable, though not of shining in company. Swift.

4. An association of persons for the purpose of carrying on some enterprise for the common benefit; a corporation; a firm; as, the East India Company; an insurance company.
5. Partners in a firm whose names are not mentioned in the style or title of the firm; as, Hottinguer & Co.
6. (Mil.) A subdivision of a regiment of infantry or artillery, usually consisting of from 60 to 100 men, and under the command of a captain.
7. (Naut.) The crew of a ship, including the officers; as, a whole ship’s company.

To bear company, to accompany; to attend; to go with. “His faithful dog shall bear him company.” Pope.—To keep company. (a.) To accompany; to attend. (b.) To associate frequently or habitually, especially as a lover or admirer. (c.) To frequent public houses. Syn.—Assemblage; assembly; society; group; circle; crowd; troop; crew; gang; corporation; association.