partager
/paʁ.ta.ʒe/
Definition
To share something with others, or to divide something into parts.
Example
Il aime partager ses repas avec ses amis.
Show translation
He likes to share his meals with his friends.
Etymology
From Old French *partir* (to divide), derived from Latin *partire* ("to divide, distribute"), itself from *pars / partis* ("a part, share"). The suffix *-age* reinforced the sense of action or process, giving *partage* (sharing) and the verb *partager* by the 16th century.
Cultural note
In French culture, sharing a meal (*partager un repas*) is a deeply social act, and the table is central to family and community life. The word also appears naturally in digital contexts — *partager une publication* means "to share a post" on social media, so it bridges traditional and modern usage seamlessly. Note that *partager* is not a false friend: the English "to part" means to separate, whereas *partager* emphasises distribution and togetherness.