verb (used without object), par·took, par·tak·en, par·tak·ing.
- to take or have a part or share along with others; participate (usually followed by in): He won’t partake in the victory celebration.
- to receive, take, or have a share or portion (usually followed by of): to partake of a meal.
- to have something of the nature or character (usually followed by of): feelings partaking of both joy and regret.
verb (used with object), par·took, par·tak·en, par·tak·ing.
- to take or have a part in; share.
verb -takes, -taking, -took or -taken (mainly intr)
- (foll by in) to have a share; participateto partake in the excitement
- (foll by of) to take or receive a portion, esp of food or drinkeach partook of the food offered to him
- (foll by of) to suggest or have some of the quality (of)music partaking of sadness
- (tr) archaic to share in
v.1560s, back-formation from Middle English part-taking (late 14c.), or part-taker (c.1400), both translations of Latin particeps “participant” (n.), also “sharing, partaking” (see participation). Related: Partook; partaking.