Etimology
From Middle English partener, partiner, alteration (due to Middle English part) of Middle English parcener, from Old French parçonier, parçonneour (“joint heir”) from parçon (“partition”), from Latin partītiōnem, singular accusative of partītiō (“portion”). The word may also represent Old French part tenour (“part holder”). Compare also Middle English partifere (“partner”), partifelewe (“partner”). Doublet of parcener.
noun
partner (plural partners)
Either of a pair of people or things that belong together.
Someone who is associated with another in a common activity or interest.
(nautical) One of the pieces of wood comprising the framework which strengthens the deck of a wooden ship around the holes through which the mast and other fittings pass.
(Jamaica) A group financial arrangement in which each member contributes a set amount of money over a set period.
Examples
business partner
dance partner
doubles partner
speaking partner
sex partner
He Suſpends on theſe Reaſons, that Thomas Rue had granted a general Diſcharge to Adam Muſhet, who was his Conjunct, and correus debendi, after the alleadged Service, which Diſcharged Muſhet, and conſequently Houstoun his Partner.
He tried to persuade Cicely to stay away from the ball-room for a fourth dance. […] But she said she must go back, and when they joined the crowd again her partner was haled off with a frightened look to the royal circle, […].
Related words
synonyms
See also Thesaurus:associate
See also Thesaurus:spouse
verb
partner (third-person singular simple present partners, present participle partnering, simple past and past participle partnered)
(transitive) To join as a partner.
(intransitive, often with with) To work or perform as a partner.
Examples
“In the current period, when people are embedded in social and informational bubbles with like-minded friends and relatives,” he says, “the idea of partnering with someone from a different bubble is understandably daunting. At a minimum it’s awkward and complicated.”
Tesco has partnered with Direct Rail Services to launch a new refrigerated rail freight service from Tilbury to Coatbridge.