outsourcing
|out-sour-cing|
🇺🇸
/ˈaʊtˌsɔrsɪŋ/
🇬🇧
/ˈaʊtˌsɔːsɪŋ/
(outsource)
external sourcing
Etymology
'outsourcing' originates from the combination of 'out' and 'source', where 'out' meant 'external' and 'source' referred to 'origin or supply'.
'outsourcing' evolved from the practice of 'sourcing' goods or services externally, becoming a common business strategy in the late 20th century.
Initially, it meant 'obtaining resources from outside', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'contracting out business processes'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the practice of obtaining goods or services from an external or foreign supplier, especially in place of an internal source.
The company is considering outsourcing its IT services to reduce costs.
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Verb 1
to obtain (goods or a service) from an outside or foreign supplier, especially in place of an internal source.
They decided to outsource the manufacturing process to a company overseas.
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Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:41