partner

American  

[pahrt-ner] / ˈpɑrt nər /

noun

1. a person who shares or is associated with another in some action or endeavor; sharer; associate.

   Synonyms:

   accomplice, accessory, colleague

2. Law.

   1. a person associated with another or others as a principal or a contributor of capital in a business or a joint venture, usually sharing its risks and profits.

   2. special partner.

3. silent partner.

4. a spouse; a husband or a wife.

5. the person with whom one cohabits in a romantic relationship.

   I'd like you to meet my partner, Sarah.

6. either of two people who dance together.

   my favorite partner in the waltz.

7. a player on the same side or team as another.

   My tennis partner was an excellent player.

8. Nautical. partners, a framework of timber round a hole in a ship's deck, to support a mast, capstan, pump, etc.

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verb (used with object)

1. to associate as a partner or partners with.

2. to serve as the partner of.

partner British  

/ ˈpɑːtnə /

noun

1. an ally or companion

   a partner in crime

2. a member of a partnership

3. one of a pair of dancers or players on the same side in a game

   my bridge partner

4. either member of a couple in a relationship

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verb

1. to be or cause to be a partner (of)

Other Word Forms

• nonpartner noun
• partnerless adjective
• underpartner noun

Etymology

Origin of partner

First recorded in 1250–1300; Middle English partener, alteration of parcener by association with part

Example Sentences

"We are committed to working closely with partners across the public and private sector including Police Scotland to ensure it continues to be a welcoming and attractive place for everyone."

From BBC

Neither the public nor his family would ever welcome Maggie Fox as his partner.

From Literature

Third, the U.S. should coordinate with intelligence partners to develop shared approaches for detecting insider trading and manipulation by adversary intelligence services.

From The Wall Street Journal

“I think we’re right at the precipice right now of the moment where we don’t have to say anything, where our partners are going to do all the talking,” Traina said.

From The Wall Street Journal

Graham obliged—arguing that Rwanda was a reliable U.S. partner and sanctions could alienate it.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• ally
• associate
• colleague
• companion
• friend
• husband
• participant
• spouse
• wife