What does party mean?
Party most commonly means a social gathering, such as a birthday celebration, house party, or reception, where people come together to eat, talk, dance, or enjoy entertainment. It can also mean an organized group united by a shared interest, especially a political party. In legal, diplomatic, and business language, a party is a person or group involved in an agreement, dispute, or proceeding; for example, the parties may sign a contract or settle a case. As a verb, to party means to attend celebrations or spend time enjoying oneself, usually in an informal or festive setting. The word is useful because it links the idea of taking part in a social occasion with the broader concept of joining a group. Its historical development also reflects this range: its older sense of a “part” or “share” developed into the idea of people gathered together, whether for celebration or shared purposes.
A social gathering at which people meet for celebration, entertainment, or socializing.
"We are planning a party in the garden for the summer holiday."
An organized group of people united by a common political, social, or ideological interest; also, a person or group involved in a legal, diplomatic, or contractual matter.
"The opposition party called for a public inquiry into the allegations."
To attend a party or spend time celebrating and socializing in a lively, informal way.
"They partied until the early hours of the morning."
Use the plural form when referring to multiple gatherings, groups, or participants or sides in a matter.
"Several parties were held in different neighborhoods during the celebration."
From a word meaning “a share or portion,” party grew into the idea of a group joined by a common interest—and, eventually, to the familiar social event.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of party
English party comes through Old French partie, from Latin pars or partīs, meaning “a part, portion, or share.” The word originally referred to a part or side in a matter, and by the early modern period it was used for groups involved in political or religious divisions. The familiar sense of a social gathering developed later, in the 18th century, through the idea of people meeting together for amusement. Related English words such as part, portion, and partner reflect the same Latin root.
Related word forms
How party is actually used
In the social sense, party is broadly neutral, though “bash” is more informal and “soirée” often suggests a more formal or elegant event. In legal and diplomatic contexts, “party” means a person or group involved in an arrangement or dispute, and “political party” normally refers to an organization seeking to influence government or public policy.
Easily confused with party
A party is a social gathering or an organized group, whereas a part is a portion or component of something.
Parti is a French term, and in English it can refer to a political faction or group; party is the standard English word for a social gathering or political organization.