Proprietor

Pro Tip 1/3

Used to indicate ownership of a small or independent business, not typically a large corporation.

After retiring, my uncle became the proprietor of a small bookstore.

Pro Tip 2/3

In small towns, being a proprietor often associates a person's identity closely with their business.

The village knows Mrs. Smith as the proprietor of the only florist in town.

Pro Tip 3/3

Remember, a proprietor is always an owner, never an employee of the business.

He started as a chef but now is the proud proprietor of his own restaurant.