private school

American  

noun

1. a school founded, conducted, and maintained by a private group rather than by the government, usually charging tuition and often following a particular philosophy, viewpoint, etc.

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private school British  

noun

1. a school under the financial and managerial control of a private body or charitable trust, accepting mostly fee-paying pupils

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Etymology

Origin of private school

First recorded in 1820–30

Example Sentences

Department of Veterans Affairs to build more than 2,500 units of housing on its West Los Angeles campus and invalidating a prestigious private school’s lease there.

From Los Angeles Times

Her children attended private schools, had private tutors and were given new cars — all debt-free.

From Los Angeles Times

James Manwaring, president of the Music Teachers Association - which represents music teachers across both state and private schools - says every school should have a choir.

From BBC

Over the years the district has lost students to charters and private schools, three of which burned.

From Los Angeles Times

Tech luminaries past and present have sent their children to the exclusive private school, founded back in 1893.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• parochial school
• preparatory school