Pronunciation: [kəmˈɪʃən mˈɜːt͡ʃənt] (IPA) 
Commission merchant is spelled /kəˈmɪʃən ˈmɜrtʃənt/. The first syllable "com" is spelled with a silent "m" and pronounced as /kəm/. The second syllable "mis" is spelled with a "s" but pronounced as /ʃ/. The last syllable "chant" is spelled with a "ch" but pronounced as /tʃ/. This term is used to describe a type of business that operates as an agent to facilitate the sale and distribution of goods.
A commission merchant is an individual or entity that acts as an intermediary or agent in the buying and selling of goods or services for a fee or commission. They facilitate transactions between buyers and sellers by connecting them and helping to negotiate and finalize deals.
Commission merchants typically do not take ownership of the goods or services they are involved in trading. Instead, they work on behalf of one party to find a willing buyer or seller and earn a commission for successfully facilitating the transaction. Their goal is to bring together the buyer and seller and ensure a smooth and mutually beneficial agreement.
Commission merchants often specialize in specific industries or markets, such as agricultural products, art, real estate, or financial instruments. They use their knowledge and expertise to provide advice and assistance to their clients, helping them to make informed decisions and navigate the complexities of the market.
In addition to facilitating transactions, commission merchants may also provide additional services such as market research, price negotiation, logistics coordination, and documentation preparation. They play a crucial role in fostering trade and commerce by serving as a trusted intermediary and reducing the risks and complexities associated with buying and selling goods or services.
One who transacts business in buying and selling the goods of others, receiving for his remuneration a certain rate per cent; to put a ship into commission, in the navy, to prepare a ship and put it into active service; to put the great seal into commission, to place it in the bands of certain persons till the appointment of a new lord chancellor. Note.-Any important secular office is placed in commission by instrusting certain persons with the discharge of its duties till a new appointment be made.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "commission merchant" has a relatively straightforward etymology. It is derived from two components: "commission" and "merchant".
1. "Commission" comes from the Latin word "commissio", which means "a joining together". In medieval Latin, "commissio" developed the meaning of "authority entrusted to someone". From there, it evolved in English to refer to a formal document granting someone the authority to perform certain tasks or represent others in various matters. In the context of commerce, a commission refers to the act of granting someone the authority to sell goods on behalf of others.
2. "Merchant" comes from the Old French word "mercis" or "marchis", which means "a dealer in goods". It was influenced by the Latin term "mercator", referring to a trader or a merchant.
