partial Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun the derivative of a function of two or more variables with respect to a single variable while the other variables are considered to be constant
    partial derivative.
  2. noun a harmonic with a frequency that is a multiple of the fundamental frequency
    partial tone; overtone.
  3. adjective satellite being or affecting only a part; not total
    • a partial description of the suspect
    • partial collapse
    • a partial eclipse
    • a partial monopoly
    • partial immunity
  4. adjective showing favoritism
  5. adjective satellite (followed by `of' or `to') having a strong preference or liking for
    fond.
    • fond of chocolate
    • partial to horror movies

WordNet

Par"tial adjective
Etymology
F., fr. LL. partials, fr. L. pars, gen. partis, a part; cf. (for sense 1) F. partiel. See Part, n.
Definitions
  1. Of, pertaining to, or affecting, a part only; not general or universal; not total or entire; as, a partial eclipse of the moon. "Partial dissolutions of the earth." T. Burnet.
  2. Inclined to favor one party in a cause, or one side of a question, more then the other; baised; not indifferent; as, a judge should not be partial.
    Ye have been partial in the law. Mal. ii. 9.
  3. Having a predelection for; inclined to favor unreasonably; foolishly fond. "A partial parent." Pope.
    Not partial to an ostentatious display. Sir W. Scott.
  4. (Bot.) Pertaining to a subordinate portion; as, a compound umbel is made up of a several partial umbels; a leaflet is often supported by a partial petiole.

Webster 1913