Function like a group of politicians (5)

I believe the answer is:

party

'a group of politicians' is the definition.
(political party)

'function like' is the wordplay.
'function' becomes 'part' (synonyms).
'like' becomes 'y' (similar in meaning).
'part'+'y'='PARTY'

(Other definitions for party that I've seen before include "Group gathered together for pleasure" , "Social function" , "Social occasion - political group" , "Celebratory social gathering" , "Crew" .)

I've seen this clue in The Globe and Mail.

Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app