1. in a way that is not public or open to others; without other people present
2. by a private individual or organization rather than by the government
3. in one’s own thoughts; to oneself

Examples

• The CEO met privately with the board members.
• She privately disagreed with the decision but said nothing.
• The school is privately funded by donations.
• He privately wondered if he had made the right choice.
• The matter was handled privately to avoid publicity.
• The hospital is privately owned and operated.
• They spoke privately after the meeting ended.