executive privilege

noun

: exemption from legally enforced disclosure of communications within the executive branch of government when such disclosure would adversely affect the functions and decision-making processes of the executive branch

Examples of executive privilege in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Biden's decision to invoke executive privilege not only insulates his attorney general from a criminal contempt probe but also prevents the audio from appearing in campaign ads. —

Deirdre Walsh, NPR, 12 June 2024 In a further step to shield the recordings, Biden asserted executive privilege over the audio last month. —

Ken Tran, USA TODAY, 12 June 2024 Before the Judiciary committee last week, Garland continued to defend his decision to not turn over audio tapes of the interview, over which President Biden assert executive privilege. —

Lauren Peller, ABC News, 11 June 2024 Even if executive privilege did apply, Navarro was prosecuted for refusing to appear, not for refusing to answer questions. —

Glenn Kessler, Washington Post, 18 July 2024 See all Example Sentences for executive privilege

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'executive privilege.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1909, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of executive privilege was in 1909

See more words from the same year

Cite this Entry

Style

“Executive privilege.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/executive%20privilege. Accessed 25 Aug. 2024.

Copy Citation