customer

[kuhs-tuh-mer]

noun

1. a person who purchases goods or services from another; buyer; patron.

2. Informal.,  a person one has to deal with.

   a tough customer; a cool customer.

customer

/ ˈkʌstəmə /

noun

1. a person who buys

2. informal,  a person with whom one has dealings

   a cool customer

Word History and Origins

Origin of customer¹

First recorded in 1400–50; late Middle English; custom + -er ¹; compare Middle English customer “collector of customs,” from Anglo-French; Old French costumier, cognate with Medieval Latin custumārius; customary

Idioms and Phrases

see ugly customer.

Example Sentences

“Loan officers who are competing for business will often quote lower rates in order to get a customer’s business.”

From Salon

There has been a massive backlash from customers, a probe launched by the country's medical watchdog, multiple products pulled from shelves, and questions raised about the regulation of sunscreen around the globe.

From BBC

"In today's market, standing still is falling behind. You have to continuously evolve if you want to stay relevant to your customers."

From BBC

Stephen Gallagher, from SSE Airtricity said: "We know energy costs remain a primary concern for customers across Northern Ireland, so this price reduction will hopefully provide some welcome relief for many gas customers."

From BBC

Several customers said their electric bills doubled or tripled, the lawsuit states, alleging that the owners pocketed the increase.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• client 
• consumer 
• patron 
• purchaser www.thesaurus.com