cryptography

American  

[krip-tog-ruh-fee] / krɪpˈtɒg rə fi /

noun

1. the science or study of the techniques of secret writing, especially code and cipher systems, methods, and the like.

2. the procedures, processes, methods, etc., of making and using secret writing, as codes or ciphers.

3. Computers.

   1. the study or process of using algorithms to scramble or hide data, validate messages and digital signatures, etc., in order to secure digital information against unauthorized access or corruption.

      Cryptography has been rapidly evolving to introduce more hacker-proof algorithms.

   2. an instance of this.

      The application’s cryptography provides a strong element of security, but is unlikely to be proof against all cyber threats.

4. anything written in a secret code, cipher, or the like.

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cryptography British  

/ krɪpˈtɒlədʒɪ, ˌkrɪptəˈɡræfɪk, krɪpˈtɒɡrəfɪ /

noun

1. the science or study of analysing and deciphering codes, ciphers, etc; cryptanalysis

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cryptography Cultural  

1. The science of coding and decoding messages so as to keep these messages secure. Coding (see encryption) takes place using a key that ideally is known only by the sender and intended recipient of the message.

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Discover More

Historically used in warfare, cryptography is now used routinely in computer networks. This often pits the desire of individuals and businesses to keep Internet information private against the need of government to investigate crime and terrorism.

Other Word Forms

• cryptographal adjective
• cryptographer noun
• cryptographic adjective
• cryptographical adjective
• cryptographically adverb
• cryptographist noun

Etymology

Origin of cryptography

First recorded in 1635–45; crypto- + -graphy

Compare meaning

How does cryptography compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• cryptology vs. cryptography

Example Sentences

One promising solution is quantum cryptography, which relies on the laws of physics rather than mathematical complexity to keep data secure.

From Science Daily

Charles H Bennett and Gilles Brassard's work, which dates back to 1984, is known as quantum cryptography and has "redefined secure communication and computing", the award's body said.

From BBC

Quantum computers have the potential to transform fields ranging from materials science to cryptography, but today they remain extremely difficult to build and operate.

From Science Daily

Coast Guard gave him an aptitude test and sent him to a cryptography unit in the Aleutian Islands, part of the effort to intercept Japanese communications and break their code.

From Los Angeles Times

Just look at the adoption of post-quantum cryptography, new methods of encryption designed to shield data secure from attacks by quantum computers.

From Barron's