confidential
UK: ˌkɒnfɪˈdenʃəl | US: ˌkɑːnfɪˈdenʃəl
adj. intended to be kept secret; private or sensitive
adj. entrusted with confidential information
adj. (of a person) discreet or trustworthy
The word "confidential" originates from the Latin confidentia (trust, confidence), combining con- (together) and fidere (to trust). The root fid- appears in many English words (e.g., "fidelity," "confide") and reflects the idea of shared trust. The suffix -ential transforms the noun into an adjective, emphasizing secrecy or exclusivity. Over time, "confidential" evolved to describe information shared under trust or requiring discretion.
The documents are strictly confidential and cannot be shared.
She works as a confidential assistant to the CEO.
The meeting was held in a confidential setting.
He spoke in a confidential tone, lowering his voice.
All patient records are kept confidential under privacy laws.