partial

par-tial · adjective

imported

Definitions

adjective

  1. 1.

    Existing only in part; incomplete or unfinished.

  2. 2.

    Favoring one side over another; biased or prejudiced.

  3. 3.

    Having a particular liking for something or someone (usually followed by "to").

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    partial to — having a fondness or preference for
  • •
    partial eclipse — an eclipse in which only part of the sun or moon is obscured
  • •
    partial payment — payment of only part of the amount owed

Related words

Antonyms: complete, impartial, whole
See also: biased, complete, impartial, incomplete
Synonyms: biased, fond, incomplete

Etymology

From Medieval Latin partialis ("concerning a part"), from Latin pars, partis ("part"). The sense of "biased" developed from the idea of favoring one part or side over another.