startup
START-up
/ˈstɑːrtʌp/
A newly established business, especially one that is small and has the potential for rapid growth.
A startup is not just any new business; it is specifically designed to scale quickly and often involves innovation or technology.
The story behind the word. The term 'startup' as a noun for a new business gained popularity in the late 1970s and early 1980s, particularly in Forbes magazine, to describe the burgeoning tech companies in California.
Word relationships
- new business: A new business is any recently opened shop, while a startup implies a scalable, often tech-oriented model.
- incumbent: An incumbent is an established company that already holds a dominant position in the market.
Commonly confused with
- small business: Small businesses aim for steady profitability and local impact; startups aim for explosive growth and global reach.
Word family
- start up (verb): To begin a new business or project.
Collocations
- tech startup
- startup culture
- startup ecosystem
- early-stage startup
Example sentences
- "Silicon Valley is famous for its high concentration of tech startup companies." Describing the tech ecosystem.
- "Many a startup fails within the first year due to a lack of clear market fit." Discussing the challenges of new businesses.
Memory hook
A startup is a business that is just 'starting up' its engines to fly high. Start + Up = Starting to grow Up fast.
When not to use
Don't call a new local hair salon or a dry cleaner a 'startup'; these are simply 'new businesses' because they lack the high-growth, scalable model.
Fun facts
- The term 'startup' was used as early as 1845, but it referred to a person who had suddenly risen in wealth or status, not a company.
Explore more words
scalability, innovate, enterprise, rapid, incubator, venture
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