Definitions

1. adjective

not open to the public or made available for general use

“The private club had a membership fee that was too expensive for most people to afford.”

2. noun

a person or organization that provides financial services, especially banking and investment

“I met a private banker at the conference who offered me investment advice.”

3. noun

a part of a ship or boat that is below the main deck and provides a private area for crew members or passengers

“The captain had his private quarters in the ship’s stern.”

4. adverb

in a private manner or for private purposes

“She worked privately as a freelance writer for several years before publishing her novel.”

5. verb

to make or keep something secret

“The company privately negotiated a deal with the government to avoid public scrutiny.”

6. noun

a type of ownership where a company is owned by a small group of individuals or organizations

“The private equity firm invested millions in the startup, helping it to grow rapidly.”