PRIVILY

Pronunciation (US):

(GB):

 Dictionary entry overview: What does privily mean? 

• PRIVILY (adverb)
  The adverb PRIVILY has 1 sense:

1. confidentially or in secret

  Familiarity information: PRIVILY used as an adverb is very rare.

 Dictionary entry details 

• PRIVILY (adverb)

Sense 1

Meaning:

Confidentially or in secret

Context example:

told her friend privily that she was planning to be married

Domain usage:

archaicism; archaism (the use of an archaic expression)

 Context examples 

He was keenly sensitive, hopelessly self-conscious, and the amused glance that the other stole privily at him over the top of the letter burned into him like a dagger-thrust.

(Martin Eden, by Jack London)

But they privily examined his bunk.

(Love of Life and Other Stories, by Jack London)

A few minutes later the mate came fumbling about in search of it, but I returned it privily to Leach next day.

(The Sea-Wolf, by Jack London)

As every one knew, she was keeping company with John Collins, the blacksmith, and, as Maria knew privily, Miss Flanagan and Mr. Collins were going next day to Golden Gate Park.

(Martin Eden, by Jack London)