privileged

adjective

priv·​i·​leged ˈpriv-lijd How to pronounce privileged (audio)
ˈpri-və-
Synonyms of privilegednext
1
: having or enjoying one or more privileges
privileged classes
2
: not subject to the usual rules or penalties because of some special circumstance
especially : not subject to disclosure in a court of law
a privileged communication

Examples of privileged in a Sentence

He comes from a very privileged background. The town attracts people who are wealthy and privileged. The President's adviser has a privileged position of trust. She had privileged access to the files. Only the privileged few can become members of the club.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The series is set on the ultra-exclusive Jupiter Island where the privileged world of professional golfers and their wives fractures when a mysterious outsider arrives — and a secret threatens golf’s reigning power couple. — Nellie Andreeva, Deadline, 9 July 2026 As Fortune’s Carol Loomis observed in a rare 2004 look inside the firm, nearly everything about the Allens’ operation is built to make guests feel privileged rather than pitched. — Sydney Lake, Fortune, 8 July 2026 Merely transmitting documents to counsel after their creation doesn’t convert them into privileged communications. — Daniel Cohen, Forbes.com, 7 July 2026 Pons said the Board is in the process of scheduling a special meeting to receive attorney-client privileged legal guidance related to the complaint filed by the union and the Board’s responsibilities. — Stephen Underwood, Hartford Courant, 6 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for privileged

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of privileged was in the 14th century

Phrases Containing privileged

Rhymes for privileged

See All Rhymes for privileged

Browse Nearby Words

privilege
privileged
privileged debt
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Cite this Entry

“Privileged.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/privileged. Accessed 14 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

privileged

adjective
priv·​i·​leged
ˈpriv(-ə)-lijd
: having more things and a better chance in life than most people
privileged classes of society

Legal Definition

privileged

adjective
priv·​i·​leged
: not subject to the usual rules or penalties because of some special circumstance
especially : not subject to disclosure especially in an adjudicative proceeding

More from Merriam-Webster on privileged

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for privileged

Nglish: Translation of privileged for Spanish Speakers

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