Meaning & Definition
noun
A person who shares or is associated with another in some action or endeavor; a participant in a partnership.
She is my business partner in our new startup.
A spouse or romantic companion.
He introduced her to his partner at the family gathering.
A person who plays a significant role in a partnership, especially in a dance or sport.
She is looking for a partner to practice her tango with.
verb
To join or associate with someone in a partnership.
They decided to partner with a local charity for the event.
To work together with another person in a joint venture.
The two companies will partner to develop new technology.
Etymology
From Middle English 'partener', from Old French 'partenaire', from part 'part', from Latin 'partire'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
business partner:
A person with whom one engages in commercial enterprise.
dance partner:
A person with whom one dances.
life partner:
A person with whom one shares a long-term romantic relationship.
Slang Meanings
Homeboy/Homegirl
That's my homeboy, we've been partners since childhood.
Bro
He's my bro, my partner in all things fun.