privy
Privy (adj) means having private or secret knowledge of something, especially information not shared with everyone. Example: “Only a handful of executives were privy to the merger talks.”
How to use privy
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishEither "in on" secret information, or (as a noun) an old-style outhouse toilet.
Word forms
more privy comparative, privies plural, most privy superlative
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Only a handful of executives were _____ to the merger talks.
Etymology
From Old French privé, "private," from Latin privatus — the same root as the modern word "private," of which "privy" is a doublet.
Synonyms
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Rhymes for privy
See all rhymes for privy →Frequently asked questions
What does “privy” mean?
The word “privy” means having private or secret knowledge of something, especially information not shared with everyone. In plain terms, either "in on" secret information, or (as a noun) an old-style outhouse toilet.
How do you pronounce “privy”?
“Privy” is pronounced PRIH-vee (/ˈpɹɪvi/ in IPA).
How do you use “privy” in a sentence?
Here is “privy” used in a sentence: “Only a handful of executives were privy to the merger talks.”
What part of speech is “privy”?
Depending on how it is used, “privy” can be an adjective and a noun.
Where does the word “privy” come from?
The word “privy” comes from Latin. From Old French privé, "private," from Latin privatus — the same root as the modern word "private," of which "privy" is a doublet.
Is “privy” a common word?
“Privy” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “privy” have?
“Privy” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: having private or secret knowledge of something, especially information not shared with everyone.