in camera

/ˈɪn ˌkæmərə/

The legal term in camera describes a discussion that happens in private, usually in a judge's chambers. Reporters and observers aren't allowed to witness an in camera meeting.

Surprisingly, in camera has nothing to do with photography. The Latin phrase means "in a chamber" or "in a vault," and it's used interchangeably with in chambers. In camera conversations are used to protect personal or business secrets, and sometimes entire trials are held in camera to keep them private. Or impress your friends by using the term to describe any secret meeting: "Let's discuss that in camera so my nosy brother can't overhear us!"

Definitions of in camera

1. adverb

   kept private or confined to those closely concerned
   synonyms: in private, privately