A partnership is a collection of individuals ‘carrying on a business in common with a view to profit’ .
A traditional partnership (unlike a LLP) is not a separate legal entity and each partner is jointly and severally liable with the other partners for all debts or obligations owed.
The best way to think about a traditional partnership is to view each partner as an agent acting on behalf of all the partners. When contracting with other third parties the partner is acting on behalf of all the partners and can bind them to a contract without their express agreement.