The word partner has taken on new meaning in this liberal pro-gay politicaly correct world we live in. I was reading a news story yesterday about some journalist named Glenn Greenwald and his partner David Miranda. It became apparent quickly that these boys are not just co-workers. Partner now refers to someone of the same sex that you have a significant sexual relationship with, but you’re not married to.
What do cops now call the person they ride around with on patrol? When two businessmen in a partnership walk into a meeting and refer to each other as partner, do eyebrows rise?
A few years back my co-worker Karen asked me to deposit a paycheck for her at the local bank while she was on vacation. As I made the transaction I mentioned to the teller that Karen was my partner. Karen was born and raised here and everybody knows her. You should have seen the look of shock on that ladies face (you’re Karen’s partner!)
It was obviously some small town news that she had somehow missed out on :-)
To me a partner is someone you work with, have mutual respect for, and have each others back. I guess this word is finished in that regard…
Sounds like partner has taken on the face of something totally different. Partner in the old west was a person you didn’t know their name. In my days it meant someone you pair up with for work. Now you are saying it’s someone you go to bed with. Oh my how times do change.
Yea, partner is gay-speak for girl/boy friend. When talking with strangers I don’t refer to Steph as my partner but as my girlfriend, just so there is no misunderstanding…
Standard disclaimer: Not that there’s anything wrong with that! :-)
I think that the word “partner” is used in states that don’t use the word “husband” or “wife” in gay/lesbian relationships because of anti-gay marriage laws.
I’m fine with husband/wife if they’re married. Otherwise boyfriend/girlfriend should suffice. I’m just bothered by the hijacking of the word partner. Thanks for your “years of living in the City” insight old friend :-)