Main Entry: ¹char·ter

Pronunciation: \ˈchär-tər\

Function: noun

Etymology: Middle English chartre, from Anglo-French, from Medieval Latin chartula, from Latin, diminutive of charta

Date: 13th century

1 : a written instrument or contract (as a deed) executed in due form
2 a : a grant or guarantee of rights, franchises, or privileges from the sovereign power of a state or country b : a written instrument that creates and defines the franchises of a city, educational institution, or corporation c : constitution
3 : a written instrument from the authorities of a society creating a lodge or branch
4 : a special privilege, immunity, or exemption
5 : a mercantile lease of a ship or some principal part of it
6 : a charter travel arrangement