Privacy
ˈprɪvəsi
Definitions
2 meaningsThe state or condition of being free from being observed or disturbed by other people.
ˈprɪvəsi
The state of being free from public attention and intrusion.
She valued her privacy and rarely spoke about her personal life.
💡 Simply: Privacy is when you have your own space and no one can peek or listen in on what you're doing, like having a secret diary or your own room!
👶 For kids: Privacy means nobody is watching or bothering you.
More Examples
The company's new privacy policy aims to protect user data.
The internet has changed our ideas about privacy
How It's Used
"The right to privacy is a fundamental human right."
"Online privacy is a growing concern with the increasing use of social media."
The state of being apart from other people, private or secret; freedom from unauthorized intrusion.
ˈprɪvəsi
Freedom from unwanted intrusion; the state of being apart from others.
He cherished his privacy and often went on solitary hikes.
💡 Simply: Privacy is like having your own secret hideout where you can be yourself without anyone watching or interrupting you. Think of it as your personal bubble!
👶 For kids: It's when you can be alone and do your own thing without anyone looking.
More Examples
The company's surveillance methods raise questions about employee privacy.
People can be worried about the invasion of their privacy
How It's Used
"Individuals often seek privacy to reflect on their thoughts and feelings."
"The house was designed with privacy in mind, with high fences and secluded gardens."
Idioms & expressions
right to privacy
The legal and ethical principle that protects individuals' personal information and personal space.
"The government is debating the expansion of the right to privacy."
invade someone's privacy
To intrude on someone's private life, personal space, or personal information without permission.
"The paparazzi were accused of invading the celebrity's privacy."
From Latin *prīvātus* meaning 'belonging to one's self, set apart from the state'. Influenced by the later French *privauté*.
Historically, privacy was often associated with physical seclusion and the ownership of property. The concept has evolved significantly with the rise of technology and the internet.
Memory tip
Think of your private space; that's where you have privacy.