consumer

[ kuhn-soo-mer ]

noun

1. a person or thing that consumes.
2. Economics. a person or organization that uses a commodity or service.
3. Ecology. an organism, usually an animal, that feeds on plants or other animals.

consumer

/ kənˈsjuːmə /

noun

1. a person who acquires goods and services for his or her own personal needs Compare producer
2. a person or thing that consumes
3. usually plural ecology an organism, esp an animal, within a community that feeds upon plants or other animals See also decomposer producer

consumer

/ kən-so̅o̅′mər /

1. A heterotrophic organism that feeds on other organisms in a food chain.
2. ◆ Herbivores that feed on green plants and detritivores that feed on decaying matter are called primary consumers. Carnivores that feed on herbivores or detritivores are called secondary consumers, while those that feed on other carnivores are called tertiary consumers.
3. Compare producer

consumer

1. Someone who purchases a good for personal use.

Other Words From

• con·sumer·ship noun
• anti·con·sumer noun adjective
• noncon·sumer adjective noun
• precon·sumer noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of consumer¹

First recorded in 1375–1425, for the earlier sense “squanderer,” 1525–35 for the current sense; Middle English; consume + -er ¹

Example Sentences

Opponents said the measure was bad for consumers — and for workers.

From Los Angeles Times

But as consumers shift to on-demand streaming platforms, the future of cable channels looks increasingly bleak.

From Los Angeles Times

Average consumers are pulling back on discretionary spending, experts say, and may be frequenting their favorite restaurants less.

From Los Angeles Times

Companies and economists have said the plan could increase consumer prices and drive inflation.

From Salon

Crypto is expected to lobby for a more favorable regulatory environment, but also faces questions about who will keep campaign donors in check and consumers safe, Salon reported.

From Salon

Related Words

• buyer
• customer
• purchaser
• shopper
• user