English Reference
adjective

privileged

adj.
US /ˈpɹɪvɪɫədʒd/ UK /pɹˈɪvɪlɪdʒd/ priv·i·leged

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate

    having special rights, wealth, or advantages that other people do not have.

    possessing social, economic, or political advantages often unavailable to the general population.

    Simple

    She grew up in a privileged family and attended the best private schools.

    In context

    The report highlights how students from privileged backgrounds continue to dominate high-ranking positions in the civil service.

    advantagedwealthyelite
  2. 02 C1 Advanced Technical Law

    describing information that is legally protected and does not have to be shared in court.

    legally protected from discovery or disclosure in a court of law, typically due to the nature of the relationship between parties.

    Simple

    The lawyer explained that their conversation was privileged and could not be used as evidence.

    In context

    The judge ruled that the internal emails were privileged and therefore exempt from the discovery process during the litigation.

    Usage

    Often used in the phrase 'attorney-client privileged information'.

    discoverable
  3. 03 B2 Upper Intermediate Formal

    feeling very lucky or honoured to have a special opportunity.

    experiencing a sense of honour or gratitude for being granted a specific opportunity or experience.

    Simple

    I felt very privileged to meet the president during his visit to our city.

    In context

    The researchers felt privileged to be the first team allowed into the ancient tomb since its discovery a decade ago.

Now, they have walked out of their respective lives with the intention of atoning for their privileged existences through a “meaningfully violent act” against “a prominent American target”.

The Guardian· 14 Aug 2026

By the late 19th century, the Royal Society and the Royal Astronomical Society had a “ joint permanent eclipse committee ”, government funding and privileged access to the navy and colonial administrations.

The Guardian· 13 Aug 2026
This entry
Level C1 · Advanced
Frequency Frequent
Updated