Private Meaning and Definition
Private
Pronunciation
/ˈpraɪvət/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A person, usually of high social class or position, who holds a confidential or sensitive position, often characterized by secrecy and exclusivity.
Examples
- She worked as a private investigator for several years.
- The private residence of the wealthy businessman was off-limits to the public.
Synonyms
- Privateer
- Confidant
Antonyms
- Public
- Open
Etymology
The word “private” comes from the Latin “privatus,” meaning “withdrawn” or “secluded.”
Usage Notes
In formal contexts, “private” often implies a sense of exclusivity or restricted access. In informal contexts, it can also imply a sense of secrecy or confidentiality.
Cultural References
James Bond, a fictional character in a series of spy novels, is often referred to as a “private eye.”
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
“Private life” can refer to a person’s personal life, separate from their public persona.
Related Words or Phrases
Words like “secrecy,” “confidentiality,” and “privilege” are closely related to the concept of “private.”
Collocations
“Private bank,” “private club,” and “private school” are common word combinations that use the term “private.”
Frequency of Use
The word “private” is commonly used in formal and informal contexts, particularly in discussing sensitive or confidential information.
Common Misspellings
The most common misspelling of “private” is “prvate.”