capitalism UK /ˈkapɪt(ə)lɪz(ə)m/US /ˈkæp.ə.təlˌɪzm̩/noun 3forms 1phrases 1 noun3 •A socio-economic system based on private ownership of resources, and capital and their exploitation for profit. •An economic system based on private control of the means of production and the exploitation of labour by capital. •An economic system based on private property and the abstraction of resources into the form of privately owned capital, with economic decisions made largely through the operation of a market unregulated by the state. formscapitalisms Phrases with capitalism crony capitalismA form of capitalism in which success in business depends on corrupt close relationships with government officials, often implying favouritism.