third-party
UK: ˌθɜːd ˈpɑːti | US: ˌθɜrd ˈpɑːrti
adj. involving or relating to a person or group besides the two primarily involved
n. a person or group besides the two primarily involved in a situation
The term "third-party" combines "third," derived from Old English þridda (related to the number three), and "party," from Old French partie (meaning "part" or "group"). Historically, it emerged in legal and political contexts to describe an entity not directly involved in a primary agreement or dispute but affected by or mediating it. The logical progression reflects the need to distinguish primary actors from auxiliary participants.
The contract requires approval from a third-party auditor.
Third-party candidates often struggle to gain traction in elections.
The software integrates with third-party plugins for extended functionality.
Disputes were resolved through a third-party mediator.
Avoid sharing data with untrusted third-party vendors.