Founders: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe people who establish an organization or institution, often implying a formal establishment or foundational role.

• The founders of the company laid out the principles of its culture.
• She is one of the founders of the renowned charity organization.

Highlights the person who first thinks of or initiates an idea, often used in a more intellectual or conceptual context.

• As the originators of the theory, their work has influenced many other studies.
• She is credited as the originator of the policy proposal.

Refers to people who make or invent something, particularly focusing on the act of creation or innovation rather than formal establishment.

• The creators of the new app showcased their product at the tech conference.
• He is regarded as one of the creators of modern digital marketing strategies.

Implies being among the first to explore or develop a new area, often involving a sense of boldness or ground-breaking work.

• They were pioneers in the field of renewable energy.
• The pioneers of the movement faced significant challenges but changed the industry.

Used to describe people who have started a company, organization, or institution from scratch. Suitable for referring to the individuals who laid the groundwork and initial structure.

• Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak are the founders of Apple.
• The founders of the charity worked tirelessly to ensure it helped those in need.

Refers to individuals who are among the first to explore or develop something new. Implies being ahead of their time and often facing challenges.

• The Wright brothers are often seen as pioneers of aviation.
• She was a pioneer in the field of genetic engineering, opening doors for future researchers.

Typically refers to people who design buildings. Metaphorically, it can describe individuals who create and plan complex structures or projects, not necessarily buildings.

• Frank Lloyd Wright is one of the most renowned architects in history.
• The architects of the new business strategy worked for months to perfect the plan.

Used to describe people who set up an organization, institution, or system systematically and formally. Less common and somewhat more formal.

• The establishers of the university envisioned a place for higher learning and research.
• As the establishers of the new policy, they had to ensure everything was compliant with the law.