partido

Partido is a Spanish noun with several related meanings. It can refer to a political party, a group organized to contest elections and pursue a common platform; or to a game or match between teams. The term comes from the verb partir, meaning to divide, and originally signified a portion or division.

In politics, partido político denotes a political party in many Spanish-speaking countries. Parties organize around ideologies, leadership, and programs; they establish internal structures, nominate candidates, and compete in elections. The exact organization and influence of a party vary by country and by legal framework, but the concept remains central to representative systems.

In sports, un partido refers to a game or contest between teams or players. In football, basketball, and other team sports, a partido is scheduled for a given date and venue, with outcomes affecting standings, progression in tournaments, and official records. The term is common in everyday sports reporting.

Other uses include administrative or jurisdictional senses: in some countries, such as Argentina, a partido is an administrative subdivision comparable to a county or district; in Spain a partido judicial designates a judicial district. The word can also appear in idiomatic expressions meaning a portion or share in a broader context.