kongsi () is a hokkien transcription term meaning "company", especially businesses which has been incorporated. however, the word has other meanings under different historical contexts. "kongsi" were most commonly known as chinese social organizations or partnerships, but the term was also used for various chinese institutions. amongst overseas chinese, the word "kongsi" was applied to reference both clan organizations, whose members shared a common descent, and social clubs, for chinese immigrants originating from the same province. after the 19th century, these organizations came to be known as hui guan or hwee kuan (會館, literally meaning "meeting hall").