privacy

noun

pri·​va·​cy ˈprī-və-sē 

especially British ˈpri-

plural privacies

1

a

: the quality or state of being apart from company or observation : seclusion

b

: freedom from unauthorized intrusion

one's right to privacy

2

a

: secrecy

b

: a private matter : secret

3

archaic : a place of seclusion

Synonyms of privacy

• solitude
• isolation

Examples of privacy in a Sentence

She went upstairs for some privacy.

Celebrities have a right to privacy.

Recent Examples on the Web

The gardens allow for privacy and a symphony of sounds; wind rustles through the trees, water ripples through the pool, and birds chirp. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 13 Nov. 2026

But attorneys for the state said the information requested would violate voter privacy. — Arkansas Online, 13 Nov. 2026

The pledge also called for classroom screen-time limits and the appointment of a chief privacy officer. — Kate Armanini, Chicago Tribune, 12 Nov. 2026

Below, Forbes Coaches Council members share ways leaders can help employees navigate difficult life events while preserving their dignity, privacy and sense of belonging. — Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 12 Nov. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing privacy

• invade someone's privacy
• invasion of (someone's) privacy

Kids Definition

privacy

noun

pri·​va·​cy ˈprī-və-sē 

plural privacies

1

a

: the quality or state of being out of the sight and hearing of other people : seclusion

the privacy of the home

b

: freedom from being intruded upon

one's right to privacy

2

: secrecy sense 2

talk in privacy

Legal Definition

privacy

noun

pri·​va·​cy

: freedom from unauthorized intrusion : state of being let alone and able to keep certain especially personal matters to oneself see also expectation of privacy, invasion of privacy, privacy interest at interest sense 3b, right of privacy, Griswold v. Connecticut and Roe v. Wade