Definition of party

The word "party" originated in the 14th century from the Old French word "partie," meaning "a part" or "a side." Initially, it referred to a share or portion of something, such as a party to a contract or a party to a dispute. Over time, its meaning expanded to include a group of people who share a common interest or goal. In the 15th century, "party" began to refer to a group of people who gathered for social or festive purposes, such as a wedding party or a hunting party. This sense of the word has evolved to encompass a wide range of gatherings, including birthday parties, themed parties, and political parties. Today, the word "party" can refer to a social gathering, a faction or group within a larger organization, or even a political or ideological movement. Despite its varied uses, the core idea of "party" remains connected to the concept of a group or shared identity.