Partake

/pɑːrˈteɪk/

verbmediumCommonGeneral

Definitions

2 meanings
1

To have or take a share or part of something; participate; share.

/pɑːrˈteɪk/

verbneutralmedium
General

To have or take a share in something.

They decided to partake in the community clean-up.

💡 Simply: Partake means to join in and enjoy something! Imagine you’re at a birthday party. If you eat cake and play games, you're partaking in the fun!

👶 For kids: To be a part of something. Like when you share your toys!

More Examples

2

The children were thrilled to partake in the school play.

3

We will partake in the picnic lunch.

How It's Used

Social

"Guests were invited to partake in the festivities."

Culinary

"She chose to partake in the dessert buffet."

Ceremonial

"The priest invited the congregation to partake in communion."

2

To eat or drink something.

/pɑːrˈteɪk/

verbneutralmedium
General

To eat or drink.

We partook of the feast with great enjoyment.

💡 Simply: When you partake of food, you're eating it! Think of enjoying a special meal, like a holiday dinner.

👶 For kids: To eat or drink something yummy!

More Examples

2

The guests partook of the refreshments provided.

3

She decided to partake of the offered delicacies.

How It's Used

Dining

"He was eager to partake of the delicious meal."

Religious

"The faithful partook of the sacrament."

Tip:Relate it to 'taking' food or drink as a share. It is more formal in this context.

Idioms & expressions

partake in

To participate in an activity, event, or something being offered.

"She decided to partake in the charity walk."

partake of

To eat or drink something, often of a special or ceremonial nature.

"They partook of the communion bread and wine."

From Middle English *partaken*, from Old French *part-, *part-ir* ('to share, divide') + *take*

Historically, 'partake' often signified participation in religious rituals or formal gatherings. It is less frequent than 'participate'.

Memory tip

Think of 'taking a part' in something. You're not just watching; you're involved.

Usage

40%Spoken
60%Written