party line

noun

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 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.
The resolution passed 12-11 along party lines with Democrats supporting quick take. Michelle Mullins, Chicago Tribune, 2 June 2025 The bill passed on strict party lines, by 101 to 45, at 5:30 p.m. after five hours of debate. Christopher Keating, Hartford Courant, 31 May 2025 The Republican House of Representatives passed President Trump’s sprawling bill of deep cuts in spending and taxes early Thursday by a 215-214 mostly party line vote. Dave Goldiner, New York Daily News, 22 May 2025 Democrats immediately motioned to adjourn, but the vote failed on party lines. Lisa Mascaro, Los Angeles Times, 21 May 2025 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

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Cite this Entry

“Party line.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/party%20line. Accessed 5 Jun. 2025.

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