noun
party
A person or group involved in an agreement, legal case, or dispute.
Both parties sign the agreement before work begins.
Etymology
The earlier meaning is a part or side. Legal usage treats each participant in an agreement or dispute as one of its distinct sides, hence a party.
More examples
- She is a party to the lawsuit.
- Each party keeps a copy.
- The third party offered to mediate.
Forms
party · parties
Similar words
- participant
- Broader; need not have a legal relationship.