'privilege' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'privilegium,' where 'privus' meant 'private' and 'lex' meant 'law.'

'privilegium' transformed into the Old French word 'privilege,' and eventually became the modern English word 'privilege' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'a law applying to a private person,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a special right or advantage.'