Privy

/ˈprɪvi/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A person who is in the know about something secret or private.

Only a few were privies to the plans for the surprise party.

A toilet located outside a house or building.

The old cabin had a privy in the back, away from the main living space.

adjective

Sharing in the knowledge of (something secret or private).

The lawyer was privy to confidential information about the case.

Belonging to or concerning an individual person or their interests.

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.

A term used colloquially to refer to a toilet.

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

When someone is included in a secret or private matter.

I was privy to their little scheme.