(ecclesiastical law, now chiefly historical) An exemption from certain laws granted by the Pope. [from 8th c.]
(countable) A particular benefit, advantage, or favor; a right or immunity enjoyed by some but not others; a prerogative, preferential treatment. [from 10th c.]
All first-year professors here must teach four courses a term, yet you're only teaching one! What entitled you to such a privilege?
An especially rare or fortunate opportunity; the good fortune (to do something). [from 14th c.]
2012, The Observer, letter, 29 April:
I had the privilege to sit near him in the House for a small part of his Commons service and there was an additional device provided to aid his participation in debates.
(uncountable) The fact of being privileged; the status or existence of (now especially social or economic) benefit or advantage within a given society. [from 14th c.]
People who at any other time would cling like glue to their miserable scraps of privilege, will surrender them fast enough when their country is in danger.
2013 October 21, Azad Essa, “South Africa's 'miracle transition' has not put an end to white privilege”, in The Guardian[1], Guardian Media Group:
There is no complexity expressed in the feverish discussions of white privilege that periodically grips South Africa's chattering class.
2013, The Guardian, 21 Oct, (headline):
South Africa's 'miracle transition' has not put an end to white privilege.
A right or immunity enjoyed by a legislative body or its members. [from 16th c.]
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