A historic and regional slang term for a mining partner. It originated in the metal mines of Cornwall, where men typically worked in pairs or small teams on a tribute or tut-work contract. The term traveled globally with the Cornish diaspora, becoming a common affectionate or casual address among hardrock miners in many English-speaking camps.
Heard on the job
Hand me that drill steel, pard, we need to finish this round before the shift ends.
Also heard as
- partner