party line

noun

Synonyms of party linenext
1
: the policy or practice of a political party
2
: a single telephone circuit connecting two or more subscribers with the exchange

called also party wire

3
: the principles or policies of an individual or organization
also : the explanation or interpretation usually put forth
… the party line that her mother was a saint … —Leslie Bennetts
party-liner
ˌpär-tē-ˈlī-nər How to pronounce party line (audio)
noun

Examples of party line in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
On some of the progressive priorities she's campaigned on, including Medicare for All and free universal childcare and pre-K, Nixon argued that the issues underscore concerns about health and safety that cross party lines. — Kaia Hubbard, CBS News, 19 Aug. 2026 The board vote was split along party lines, with Democratic Supervisors Aguirre, Lawson-Remer and Monica Montgomery Steppe in favor, and Republican Supervisors Jim Desmond and Joel Anderson in opposition. — Clara Harter, Los Angeles Times, 19 Aug. 2026 Lawmakers across party lines facing ethics probes Misconduct accusations over the past few months have triggered a slew of ethics investigations, campaign suspensions and even prompted some lawmakers to take the rare step of resigning from Congress. — Emily R. Condon, USA Today, 19 Aug. 2026 Healthcare cost is a leading economic concern among Americans across party lines as the midterm elections approach. — Eugene Litvak, Fortune, 15 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for party line

Word History

First Known Use

1837, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of party line was in 1837

Rhymes for party line

See All Rhymes for party line

Browse Nearby Words

party jury
party line
party-liner
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Party line.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/party%20line. Accessed 21 Aug. 2026.

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