ˈ ̷ ̷ ̷ ̷ˌship noun
1. : the fact or state of being a partner (as in an action or in the possession or enjoyment of something) : participation
2.
a. : a legal relation existing between two or more competent persons who have contracted to place some or all of their money, effects, labor, and skill in lawful commerce or business with the understanding that there shall be a communion of profit between them
commenced legal practice in partnership with his uncle
b. : an alliance or association of persons joined together in a partnership
the formation of a partnership is a common-law right — Journal of Accountancy
c. : the persons joined together in a partnership
the partnership computes its net income … in a manner similar to that of an individual — J.K.Lasser
d. : the contract by which a partnership relation is created
3. : a relationship resembling a legal partnership and usually involving close cooperation between parties having specified and joint rights and responsibilities (as in a common enterprise)
an effective working partnership between scientists and military men — Vannevar Bush
partnership in electric power projects between the states and the federal government