part ways

phrase

chiefly US
1
: to end a relationship
The band members parted ways after releasing their third album.
often + with
She has since parted ways with the organization.
2
: to leave each other
We said our goodbyes and parted ways.
3
: to disagree with someone about something
We part ways on that issue.

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Part ways.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/part%20ways. Accessed 11 Mar. 2026.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster