privy seal

noun

1. (in Great Britain) the seal affixed to grants, documents, etc., that are to pass the great seal, and to documents of less importance that do not require the great seal.

privy seal

noun

1. often capitals (in Britain) a seal affixed to certain documents issued by royal authority: of less rank and importance than the great seal

Word History and Origins

Origin of privy seal¹

Middle English word dating back to 1250–1300

Example Sentences

The Lord Privy Seal, who is responsible for procedure, told peers the Lords had become "far too much a House of the south-east of England".

From BBC

Lord True, the Lord Privy Seal, said the proposal was a "practical solution" necessary for the "machinery of government" - and suggested only working royals would be called upon in practice.

From BBC

In response to questions from peers, the Lord Privy Seal, Lord True, said he would not comment on "specific circumstances", and the Royal Household would need to be consulted about any change.

From BBC

Changes to the legislation would be the responsibility of the Cabinet Office and a spokeswoman referred back to the comments of the Lord Privy Seal.

From BBC

Visitors will also be able to view books and manuscripts such as the death warrant of the 7th Earl of Northumberland, signed by Elizabeth I and sealed with her privy seal.

From Reuters