[par.tridge] n, pl partridge or par.tridg.es [ME partrich, modif. of OF perdris, modif. of L perdic-, perdix, fr. Gk perdik-, perdix] (14c) 1: any of various typically medium-sized stout-bodied Old World gallinaceous game birds (Perdix, Alectoris, and related genera) with variegated plumage
2: any of numerous gallinaceous birds (as the American ruffed grouse or bobwhite) somewhat like the Old World partridges in size, habits, or value as game