Definition of: accountant

(ə·koun′tənt) noun
1. One whose business is to keep or examine books, as of a mercantile or banking house or in a public office.
2. One who keeps, examines, or is skilled in accounts.
3. One who is accountable or responsible.
—certified public accountant In the United States, a public accountant who has been granted a certificate of proficiency by a State examining body, and is allowed to use the designation C.P.A.
—chartered accountant In Great Britain, a member of an Institute of Chartered Accountants.
—public accountant An accountant whose services, for a compensation, are available to the public.