privy
UK: ˈprɪvi | US: ˈprɪvi
adj. sharing in the knowledge of something private or secret
adj. (archaic) private or secluded
n. (historical) a toilet, especially an outdoor one
The word "privy" originates from the Old French privé ("private"), derived from Latin privatus ("set apart, deprived"). The root priv- conveys the idea of separation or exclusivity, reflecting its modern sense of shared secrecy or intimacy. The suffix -y transforms it into an adjective. Historically, the term evolved to describe outdoor toilets (a "private" place), showcasing how language repurposes concepts of privacy.
She was privy to the company's confidential plans.
The king held privy meetings with his advisors.
The garden had an old-fashioned privy hidden behind the bushes.
Only a few employees are privy to the project's details.
In medieval times, a privy was often a simple pit latrine.