(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.]
In that community where no one was on the make, where there was a shortage of everything but no privilege and no boot-licking, one got, perhaps, a crude forecast of what the opening stages of Socialism might be like.
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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