lessee

noun

les·​see le-ˈsē How to pronounce lessee (audio)
Synonyms of lesseenext
: one that holds real or personal property under a lease

Examples of lessee in a Sentence

the lessee has the right to expect the lessor to make all necessary repairs in a timely manner
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Councilwoman Monica Rodriguez attempted to carve out exemptions for commercial restaurant lessees from the wage ordinance, citing a need to establish a distinction between hotel operators/owners and restaurants. City News Service, Daily News, 14 May 2026 The restaurant lessee is expected to rebuild, but so far no firm plans have been announced. Phil Diehl, San Diego Union-Tribune, 20 Apr. 2026 The State Land Board closely monitors drought conditions and manages grazing on a case-by-case basis in coordination with lessees, spokeswoman Emily Barbo said in email. Judith Kohler, Denver Post, 17 Apr. 2026 In ’93, that right was expanded to any willing lessee, willing lessor. George Ochenski, Washington Post, 20 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for lessee

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Anglo-French, from lessé, past participle of lesser to lease — more at lease

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of lessee was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Lessee.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lessee. Accessed 20 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

lessee

noun
les·​see le-ˈsē How to pronounce lessee (audio)
: a person holding or occupying property under a lease

Legal Definition

lessee

noun
les·​see le-ˈsē How to pronounce lessee (audio)
: a person who has possession of real or personal property under a lease
specifically : a tenant of real property under a lease

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