The word "franchise" refers to a legal and commercial relationship between the owner of a trademark, trade name, or service mark (the franchisor) and an individual or company (the franchisee) that is allowed to operate a business under that brand. In simpler terms, when you buy a franchise, you are purchasing the right to sell goods or services using the established brand and business model of the franchisor. This arrangement often includes support with marketing, training, and operations, but it also requires the franchisee to follow specific rules laid out by the franchisor.
The word "franchise" comes from the Old French term "franchise," meaning "freedom" or "privilege," which in turn comes from the Latin word "francus," meaning "free." The modern usage began in the early 20th century in the context of business rights.