Parts Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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parts

[pɑːrts ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

in grammar

The different forms that a word can take depending on its grammatical function or meaning. In English, the main parts of speech are noun, pronoun, verb, adjective, adverb, preposition, conjunction, and interjection.

Examples of usage

  • The parts of speech help us understand how words function in a sentence.
  • A noun is one of the basic parts of speech in English.
Context #2 | Noun

in a whole

Pieces or components that make up a whole object or system. Can also refer to segments or sections of a larger entity.

Synonyms

components, sections, segments.

Examples of usage

  • The car's engine consists of many different parts.
  • She played a crucial part in the success of the project.
Context #3 | Noun

in a play

Roles or characters that actors play in a theatrical performance.

Synonyms

characters, roles.

Examples of usage

  • She auditioned for the part of Juliet in the school play.
  • He had the leading part in the movie.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • In biology, living organisms are made up of parts like cells, tissues, and organs, each with specific functions.
  • The study of mechanical systems shows that parts need to work together for machines to function properly.
  • In chemistry, molecules are made up of different parts called atoms, which combine in various ways to form new substances.

Pop Culture

  • In movies, the word 'parts' can be used to refer to roles played by actors, like the 'main part' in a film.
  • Video games often talk about 'parts' when discussing character customization, like changing a character's clothing or accessories.
  • The popular phrase 'parts unknown' is often used in shows like 'Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown', highlighting exploration.

Literature

  • Great literary works often divide stories into parts or chapters, guiding readers through the narrative.
  • In classic literature, authors used parts to symbolize the journey of characters, showing growth and change over time.
  • Some poetry is structured in parts, each contributing to the overall theme and emotion of the piece.

Technology

  • In computing, software programs consist of different parts like modules, which help to define their functionality.
  • Robotics relies on various parts working in unison, such as sensors, actuators, and processors, to create functioning machines.
  • The assembly of electronics often involves intricate parts that must be accurately placed for devices to work correctly.

Origin of 'parts'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'partire', which means 'to divide', reflecting its meaning of being a section of something larger.
  • In Middle English, the word was spelled 'parte', showing how it has changed but kept its basic meaning.
  • The concept of 'parts' has been used in various languages, often related to dividing or sharing.

The word 'parts' originated from the Middle English word 'part', which in turn came from the Old French 'part', meaning 'portion' or 'share'. The use of 'parts' to refer to different forms of speech in grammar dates back to the 16th century. Over time, the word has evolved to encompass various meanings related to components, roles, and sections.


See also: apart, counterpart, impart, multipart, part, partable, partial, partially, participate, particle, particular, parting, partisan, partition, partitive, partly, partner, partook, partway, party.

Word Frequency Rank

With position #425, this word is vital for basic English fluency. It appears very frequently in everyday language and should be among the first words you learn and actively use.