A privately held corporation, also known as a closely held corporation or a private company, is an entity that is owned by a small group of individuals or families, rather than by a large group of shareholders. Other synonyms for privately held corporations include family-owned businesses, small businesses, non-publicly traded companies, and closely-held companies. These entities often have fewer regulatory requirements and less public scrutiny compared to publicly traded corporations. They may also have more control over their operations and decision-making processes, as ownership is limited to a select group of individuals. Overall, privately held corporations offer unique advantages and opportunities for business owners and investors alike.