English-English Dictionary

Meaning of the word founder in English

What does founder mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

founder

US /ˈfaʊn.dɚ/
UK /ˈfaʊn.dɚ/
"founder" picture

Noun

1.

a person who establishes an institution or settlement

Example:
•
The founder of the company retired after 30 years.
•
She is known as the founder of the local charity.
Synonym:
establishercreatororiginatorpioneerarchitect

Verb

1.

(of a plan or undertaking) fail or break down, typically as a result of a particular problem or setback

Example:
•
The negotiations began to founder when new demands were introduced.
•
The project is likely to founder without proper funding.
Synonym:
failcollapsefalterstallsinkbreak downcome to griefgo awryfall throughrun aground
2.

(of a horse or its rider) fall to the ground through lameness or exhaustion

Example:
•
The exhausted horse began to founder during the long race.
•
The rider was thrown when his horse suddenly foundered.
Synonym:
stumbletopplecollapsefalltumble
3.

(of a ship) fill with water and sink

Example:
•
The ship began to founder in the stormy seas.
•
Despite efforts to save it, the old vessel eventually foundered.
Synonym:
sinksubmergego downcapsizewreck
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