Private

Definition

The term "private" refers to something intended for or restricted to the use of a particular person or group, not accessible to the public. It can also denote a rank in the military or describe an individual who avoids public attention.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈpraɪ.vət/, /ˈpraɪ.vɪt/
• Respelling: PRY-vuht, PRY-vit

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈpraɪ.vət/, /ˈpraɪ.vɪt/
• Respelling: PRY-vuht, PRY-vit

Etymology

The word "private" originates from the Latin "privatus," meaning "withdrawn from public life," derived from "privare," meaning "to deprive" or "set apart." It entered Middle English through Old French in the 14th century, maintaining its sense of exclusivity or individual ownership.

Derivatives

• Privacy (noun)
• Privatize (verb)
• Privately (adverb)
• Privation (noun)
• Privatization (noun)

Synonyms

• Confidential
• Exclusive
• Personal

Antonyms

• Public
• Open
• Accessible

Usage

The adjective "private" is widely used in contexts involving exclusivity, confidentiality, or personal matters. For example: "This is a private meeting," or "She values her private life." As a noun, it is commonly used in military contexts, such as: "The rank of private is the entry-level position in the army."

Related Terms

• Confidential: Information or matters intended to be kept secret.
• Secluded: Describes a place or state that is isolated from public view.
• Exclusive: Limited to a select group of people.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Not open to the public: Refers to something that is reserved for an individual or a restricted group.
  • Example: "The company held a private event for its employees."
• Confidential or secret: Pertains to information that is not shared openly.
  • Example: "This document contains private information."
• Relating to personal life or matters: Describes aspects of life that are not shared with others.
  • Example: "She prefers to keep her private affairs away from the media."

Noun

• A rank in the military: Refers to the lowest enlisted rank in the armed forces.
  • Example: "The private was assigned to the infantry unit."