right of privacy

: the right of a person to be free from intrusion into or publicity concerning matters of a personal nature

called also right to privacy

compare invasion of privacy

Note: Although not explicitly mentioned in the U.S. Constitution, a penumbral right of privacy has been held to be encompassed in the Bill of Rights, providing protection from unwarranted governmental intrusion into areas such as marriage and contraception.

Dictionary Entries Near right of privacy

Cite this Entry

“Right of privacy.” Merriam-Webster.com Legal Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/legal/right%20of%20privacy. Accessed 26 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!