executive privilege

noun

: exemption from legally enforced disclosure of communications within the executive branch of government when such disclosure would adversely affect the functions and decision-making processes of the executive branch

Examples of executive privilege in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Manipulation is shielded from public or congressional scrutiny by routine bogus claims of executive privilege or state secrets. Bruce Fein, Baltimore Sun, 24 July 2025 Bernal’s cancellation came after President Donald Trump waived executive privilege for all witnesses. Lauren Green, The Washington Examiner, 16 July 2025 President Trump’s White House has waived executive privilege, a right that protects many communications between the president and staff from Congress and the courts, for almost all of those senior staffers. Matt Brown, Los Angeles Times, 9 July 2025 The investigation, backed by President Donald Trump, has expanded to include eight former Biden officials following Trump's decision to waive executive privilege for their testimony. Amanda Castro hannah Parry, MSNBC Newsweek, 26 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for executive privilege

Word History

First Known Use

1909, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of executive privilege was in 1909

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Cite this Entry

“Executive privilege.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/executive%20privilege. Accessed 9 Sep. 2025.

Legal Definition

executive privilege

see privilege sense 1b

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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