confidential etymology

Etymology:

  • Latin: confidentialis ("trustworthy, reliable")
  • Medieval Latin: confidere ("to trust") + -alis (suffix denoting "relation to")

Meaning:

  • Kept secret or private; intended only for those with a need to know.
  • Spoken or written in private or in a manner that ensures secrecy.

Origin:

The word "confidential" traces its origins back to the Latin phrase cum fidē, meaning "with faith" or "with trust." In medieval Latin, it evolved into confidere, meaning "to trust." The suffix -alis was added to form confidentialis, which conveyed the idea of "worthy of trust" or "reliable."

The term was initially used in legal and bureaucratic contexts to describe documents or information that were sensitive and meant to be kept secret. Over time, it came to be applied more broadly to any communication or action that was intended to be private and discreet.

In modern usage, "confidential" is commonly used in a variety of settings, including:

  • Business and professional communications
  • Personal conversations and relationships
  • Medical and legal proceedings
  • Government and military matters

confidential relate terms

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