Privacy

Definition

The term "privacy" describes the state or condition of being free from public attention or intrusion into one’s personal life.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈpraɪ.və.si/
• Respelling: PRY-vuh-see

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈprɪv.ə.si/
• Respelling: PRIV-uh-see

Etymology

The word "privacy" originates from the Latin "privatus," meaning "pertaining to one's self" or "not public." It evolved through Old French "privauté" and Middle English "privacie" to its modern form, retaining its emphasis on personal seclusion and confidentiality.

Derivatives

• Private (adjective)
• Privatize (verb)
• Privately (adverb)
• Privatization (noun)
• Privative (adjective, archaic)

Synonyms

• Seclusion
• Confidentiality
• Isolation

Antonyms

• Publicity
• Exposure
• Openness

Usage

The term "privacy" is commonly used in contexts such as personal rights, technology, and legal systems. For example, "The app ensures user privacy by encrypting data" or "She values her privacy and avoids sharing personal details online."

Related Terms

• Confidentiality: The state of keeping information secret or private.
• Security: Measures taken to ensure protection from harm or unauthorized access.
• Autonomy: The right to self-governance and independence.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The state of being free from public attention or observation: Refers to personal freedom from intrusion.
  • Example: "She closed the door to maintain her privacy."
• The condition of keeping information confidential: Refers to ensuring data or personal details are not disclosed.
  • Example: "The company’s policies protect the privacy of its users."
• Seclusion or solitude: Refers to physical or mental isolation from others.
  • Example: "He retreated to the mountains for some privacy."