Meaning & Definition of word "Confidential"

Confidential

/ˌkɒnfɪˈdɛnʃəl/

adjective:

  • 1. intended to be kept secret or private.
    • Example: The company has strict policies in place to protect confidential information.
  • 2. communicated in trust; secret.
    • Example: He shared his confidential thoughts with his closest friend.
  • 3. marked by intimacy or willingness to confide.
    • Example: Their confidential conversation revealed much about their personal lives.

Etymology

From late Latin 'confidentialis', from 'confidentia', meaning 'trust' or 'confidence'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

confidential information:

Information that is meant to be kept private and not disclosed to unauthorized individuals.

confidentiality agreement:

A legal contract that binds parties to keep certain information private.

confidential treatment:

Handling sensitive information in a way that preserves its privacy.

Related Words

confide:

To share a secret or private matter with someone.

confidence:

A feeling of trust or reliance on someone or something.

Slang Meanings of confidential

Meaning: Top secret

Example Sentence: The project details were top secret, only discussed in confidential circles.

Meaning: In the know

Example Sentence: Those in the know about the merger were sworn to confidentiality.