partiality

[ pahr-shee-al-i-tee, pahr-shal- ]

noun

, plural par·ti·al·i·ties.

1. the state or character of being partial.
2. a favorable bias or prejudice:

   the partiality of parents for their own children.

   Synonyms: favoritism

3. a special fondness, preference, or liking (usually followed by to or for ):

   a partiality for country living.

   Synonyms: predilection, bent, inclination, leaning

   Antonyms: dislike

partiality

/ ˌpɑːʃɪˈælɪtɪ /

noun

1. favourable prejudice or bias
2. usually foll by for liking or fondness
3. the state or condition of being partial

Other Words From

• nonpar·ti·ali·ty noun plural nonpartialities
• over·parti·ali·ty noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of partiality¹

1375–1425; late Middle English parcialite < Medieval Latin partiālitās. See partial, -ity

Example Sentences

And it failed to provide cover for a Supreme Court already diminished by other much-criticized decisions and scandals that raised questions over the partiality of some of its justices.

From Salon

Their revolting lack of ethics, their partisan partiality, and your spineless failure to reign them in suggest that under your watch, the rule of law has become illusory.

From Salon

Last month, he suggested that Cannon's "partiality" would get her removed from the case.

From Salon

Despite Cannon’s partiality so far, we should not write off this prospect until we see what happens.

From Salon

She expressed concerns about how the media attention surrounding the case will affect the partiality of the jurors.

From Seattle Times