noun

1. a franchise or written grant of specified rights made by a government or ruler to a person, corporation, etc.
2. 1. a document setting forth the aims and principles of a united group, as of nations
   2. the constitution of a city, setting forth its governmental organization and powers
   3. the Charter of the United Nations
3. a document by which a society authorizes the organization of a local chapter or lodge
4. a special privilege or exemption
5. 1. the hire or lease of a ship, bus, airplane, etc.
   2. the agreement governing this
6. Eng. Law an instrument, esp. a deed

Etymology: ME chartre < OFr < L chartula, dim. of charta: see card

transitive verb

1. to grant a charter to
2. to hire or lease by charter
3. to hire for exclusive use