Definitions

in private

ADJECTIVE

off the record

Synonyms

WEAK

arcane backdoor classified hush-hush hushed inside not for publication not public on the Q.T. private privy secret unofficial

ADJECTIVE

secretive

Synonyms

STRONGEST

covert enigmatic reticent taciturn

WEAK

backstairs buttoned-up cagey clammed up close close-mouthed cryptic feline furtive hushed in chambers in privacy in the background in the dark on the Q.T. reserved silent tight-lipped undercover unforthcoming withdrawn zipped

Antonyms

STRONGEST

communicative

WEAK

forthright honest open

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Despite the current tensions, Poland, which underwent a series of reforms in the 1990s before joining the European Union in 2004, remains a model for Ukraine in private conversations.

From Barron's • Jun. 29, 2026

“I think they need to do a better job rebutting the fireworks theory,” said Neama Rahmani, a former federal prosecutor now in private practice.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 29, 2026

Supino noted that is a “deal guy” with a background in private equity.

From Barron's • Jun. 29, 2026

They will also be staying in private accommodation during their trip.

From BBC • Jun. 27, 2026

His wife, Angela, was silent, as always; to hear her speak, you had to hide under the window of their cabin as she counseled her man in private.

From "The Underground Railroad: A Novel" by Colson Whitehead

in private

Example Sentences

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