'ex-partner' originates from the prefix 'ex-' meaning 'former' and the word 'partner' meaning 'a person who shares or is associated with another in some action or endeavor.'

The term 'ex-partner' evolved from the combination of 'ex-' and 'partner' to describe someone who was once in a partnership.

Initially, it meant 'a former associate,' but over time it evolved to specifically refer to former romantic or business partners.