partiality

American  

[pahr-shee-al-i-tee, pahr-shal-] / ˌpɑr ʃiˈæl ɪ ti, pɑrˈʃæl- /

noun

PLURAL

partialities

1. the state or character of being partial.

2. a favorable bias or prejudice.

   the partiality of parents for their own children.

   Synonyms:

   favoritism

3. a special fondness, preference, or liking (usually followed by to orfor ).

   a partiality for country living.

   Synonyms:

   predilection , bent , inclination , leaning

   Antonyms:

   dislike

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partiality British  

/ ˌpɑːʃɪˈælɪtɪ /

noun

1. favourable prejudice or bias

2. (usually foll by for) liking or fondness

3. the state or condition of being partial

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Other Word Forms

• nonpartiality noun
• overpartiality noun

Etymology

Origin of partiality

1375–1425; late Middle English parcialite < Medieval Latin partiālitās. See partial, -ity

Example Sentences

For that reason, they are expected to avoid public statements displaying partiality because such statements undermine public trust in the legal system.

From Salon

And it failed to provide cover for a Supreme Court already diminished by other much-criticized decisions and scandals that raised questions over the partiality of some of its justices.

From Salon

Their revolting lack of ethics, their partisan partiality, and your spineless failure to reign them in suggest that under your watch, the rule of law has become illusory.

From Salon

Last month, he suggested that Cannon's "partiality" would get her removed from the case.

From Salon

Despite Cannon’s partiality so far, we should not write off this prospect until we see what happens.

From Salon