PRIVY CHAMBER Meaning and
Definition
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A privy chamber refers to a private or secluded room within a palace, castle, or noble residence that is designated for the exclusive use of the highest-ranking individuals, such as monarchs, nobles, or important dignitaries. This term dates back to medieval times and was commonly found in European royal households.
The privy chamber was typically located within the innermost part of a regal residence, away from the public and bustling areas. It served as an intimate space where the ruler could conduct personal affairs, receive trusted advisers or close friends, or simply retreat from the demands of court life. The privy chamber was often luxuriously adorned with fine tapestries, ornate furniture, and other lavish decorations to reflect the grandeur and power of the occupant.
Access to the privy chamber was strictly controlled and limited to a select few individuals who maintained the highest level of trust and favor with the ruler. These favored courtiers were privy to private conversations, personal counsel, and confidential matters of state. The chamber was also used for private audiences, secret meetings, and other privileged interactions that were reserved exclusively for the most privileged and loyal servants of the ruler.
In modern times, the concept of a privy chamber has evolved, and the term can also be used more broadly to describe any private or exclusive room or area within a building, including private suites in hotels or secluded rooms in private residences.
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A retired or private apartment in a palace or mansion.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for PRIVY CHAMBER
- orivy chamber
- lrivy chamber
- -rivy chamber
- 0rivy chamber
- peivy chamber
- pdivy chamber
- pfivy chamber
- ptivy chamber
- p5ivy chamber
- p4ivy chamber
- pruvy chamber
- prjvy chamber
- prkvy chamber
- provy chamber
- pr9vy chamber
- pr8vy chamber
- pricy chamber
- priby chamber
- prigy chamber
- prify chamber
Etymology of PRIVY CHAMBER
The term "privy chamber" can be broken down into its two constituent words for the purpose of examining its etymology.
1. Privy: The word "privy" comes from the Old French word "privé", which means "private". It further traces its roots back to the Latin word "privatus", which also means "private" or "personal". Over time, "privy" came to be associated with secrecy or exclusivity, especially in the context of private rooms or spaces.
2. Chamber: The word "chamber" derives from the Old French word "chambre", which has its origins in the Latin word "camera". "Camera" referred to a vaulted or arched room and was borrowed from Ancient Greek, where it meant "room" or "vault". In Latin, "camera" was used to describe a number of spaces, including private rooms, sleeping quarters, or locked storage areas.
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