[Fr., from Gk. perdix.] A family of birds which includes also the quail. The common or gray partridge is found throughout Europe. Its flesh is much liked, and the bird is the delight of the sportsman. The red-legged partridge of southern Europe is found also in Asia. In the United States the quail is often called by the name of partridge. The partridge of New England is the ruffled grouse ; the spruce partridge is the Canada grouse.