stakeholder

noun

stake·​hold·​er ˈstāk-ˌhōl-dər 

1

: a person entrusted with the stakes of bettors

2

: one that has a stake in an enterprise

3

: one who is involved in or affected by a course of action

stakeholding

ˈstāk-ˌhōl-diŋ 

noun

Examples of stakeholder in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

In August, some community stakeholders met with NCDOT officials to work on a community benefits agreement. — Desiree Mathurin, Charlotte Observer, 7 Nov. 2026

Advocates representing vendors, hospitals, and other stakeholders see that window as an opportunity to push for another plan. — Mario Aguilar, STAT, 6 Nov. 2026

There should be open dialogue among stakeholders about finding a balance. — David Niccolini, Forbes.com, 6 Nov. 2026

Nearly three-quarters of cotton industry stakeholders anticipate supply shortages and unpredictable volumes due to climate pressure over the coming five years. — Jennifer Bringle, Footwear News, 5 Nov. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1708, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for stakeholder

• officeholder
• beholder
• bondholder
• cardholder
• freeholder
• householder
• landholder
• leaseholder
• lienholder
• placeholder
• shareholder
• slaveholder

Legal Definition

stakeholder

noun

stake·​hold·​er ˈstāk-ˌhōl-dər 

1

: a person holding property or owing an obligation that is claimed by two or more adverse claimants and who has no claim to or interest in the property or obligation

2

: a person having an interest or share in a commercial undertaking