Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

party-line

noun

/ˈpɑːrti laɪn/

Definition

A party-line is a telephone line shared by multiple subscribers, or, in a political context, it refers to the strictly adhered-to policies or opinions of a political party.

Examples

The small rural town still used a party-line telephone system, which meant that conversations could easily be overheard.
The senator voted along party lines, supporting the bill as the majority of his party had decided.

Meaning

In telecommunications, it refers to a system where several households share the same line, which can lead to eavesdropping. In politics, it signifies the official stance or strategy agreed upon by a political party.