Meaning & Definition of word "Privy"

Privy

/ˈprɪvi/

1. A person who is in the know about something secret or private.
- Example: Only a few were privies to the plans for the surprise party.
2. A toilet located outside a house or building.
- Example: The old cabin had a privy in the back, away from the main living space.

1. Sharing in the knowledge of (something secret or private).
- Example: The lawyer was privy to confidential information about the case.
2. Belonging to or concerning an individual person or their interests.
- Example: As a member of the council, he had privy access to the town's financial records.

Middle English, from Anglo-French 'privé', from Latin 'privatus'.

privy to information:

Having access to confidential information.

privy council:

A council composed of advisors to the sovereign.

privy purse:

A fund for a monarch's personal expenses.

privacy:

The state of being free from public attention.

privilege:

A special right or advantage.

privateness:

The quality of being private.

Meaning: A term used colloquially to refer to a toilet.

Example Sentence: I need to find a privy before we head out on the trail.

Meaning: When someone is included in a secret or private matter.

Example Sentence: I was privy to their little scheme.