KJV Dictionary Definition: party

party

P`ARTY, n. L. pars. See Part.

1. A number of persons united in opinion or design, in opposition to others in the community. It differs from faction, in implying a less dishonorable association, or more justifiable designs. Parties exist in all governments; and free governments are the hot-beds of party. Formerly, the political parties in England were called whigs and tories.

2. One of two litigants; the plaintiff or defendant in a lawsuit.

The cause of both parties shall come before the judges. Ex.22.

3. One concerned or interested in an affair. This man was not a party to the trespass or affray. He is not a party to the contract or agreement.

4. Side; persons engaged against each other.

The peace both parties want, is like to last.

Small parties make up in diligence what they want in numbers.

5. Cause; side.

Aegle came in to make their party good.

6. A select company invited to an entertainment; as a dining party, a tea party, an evening party.

7. A single person distinct from or opposed to another.

If the jury found that the party slain was of English race, it had been adjudged felony,

8. In military affairs, a detachment or small number of troops sent on a particular duty, as to intercept the enemy's convoy, to reconnoiter, to seek forage, to flank the enemy, &c.is used to qualify other words and may be considered either as part of a compound word, or as an adjective; as party man, party rage, party disputes, &c.