c.1200, from Old Norse traust "help, confidence," from Proto-Germanic *traust- (cf. Old Frisian trast, Dutch troost "comfort, consolation," Old High German trost "trust, fidelity," German Trost "comfort, consolation," Gothic trausti "agreement, alliance"). Related to Old English treowian "to believe, trust," and treowe "faithful, trusty" (see true). Meaning "businesses organized to reduce competition" is recorded from 1877. Trust-buster is recorded from 1903.
early 13c., from Old Norse treysta "to trust," from traust (see trust (n.)). Related: Trusted; trusting.
A combination of firms or corporations for the purpose of reducing competition and controlling prices throughout a business or industry. Trusts are generally prohibited or restricted by antitrust legislation. (Compare monopoly.)