How Do You Spell PRIVY PURSE?

1. Privy purse refers to a term used to describe the private allowance or income received by a monarch or a member of a royal family, which is separate from the funds designated for official duties and expenditures. It is a financial entity that provides a discretionary sum of money to the designated royal individual for their personal expenses, such as clothing, travel, entertainment, and other personal necessities.

   As the term suggests, the privy purse is a private fund that is controlled and managed directly by the monarch or a designated trustee. It is distinct from the funds allocated for official royal duties, government expenses, and the maintenance of the monarchy itself. The privy purse serves to ensure that the royal individual has the means to maintain their personal lifestyle and fulfill personal obligations.

   The amount of money allocated as the privy purse varies depending on the country, the royal family, and historical precedence. It is typically composed of a combination of private income, personal investments, or financial contributions from the government or the state treasury.

   The privy purse has traditionally played a significant role in supporting the private life of a monarch or a royal family member, allowing them to meet their personal expenses while keeping them separate from public funding designated for the monarchy's official functions.

2. Money set apart for the personal or private use of the sovereign; the title of the person having charge of this money.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for PRIVY PURSE

The word "privy purse" has a straightforward etymology.

The term "privy" comes from the Middle English word "privy", which means private or personal. It is derived from the Old French word "privé", meaning private.

"Purse", on the other hand, originated from the Old English word "purs", which means a small bag used for carrying money or personal belongings. It can be traced back to the Latin word "bursa", meaning purse or bag.

Therefore, when combined, "privy purse" refers to a private or personal bag used to carry money or other valuable items. In a historical context, it often referred to the private funds or income of a monarch or a prominent person.