Part"ner (?), n. [For parcener, influenced by part.]
1.
One who has a part in anything with an other; a partaker; an associate; a sharer. "Partner of his fortune." Shak. Hence: (a) A husband or a wife. (b) Either one of a couple who dance together. (c) One who shares as a member of a partnership in the management, or in the gains and losses, of a business.
My other self, the partner of my life.
Milton.
2. Law
An associate in any business or occupation; a member of a partnership. See Partnership.
3. pl. Naut.
A framework of heavy timber surrounding an opening in a deck, to strengthen it for the support of a mast, pump, capstan, or the like.
Dormant, ∨ Silent, partner. See under Dormant, a.
Syn. -- Associate; colleague; coadjutor; confederate; partaker; participator; companion; comrade; mate.
© Webster 1913.
Part"ner, v. t.
To associate, to join.
[Obs.]
Shak.
© Webster 1913.