cryptography

[krip-tog-ruh-fee]

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.

cryptography

/ krɪpˈtɒlədʒɪ, ˌkrɪptəˈɡræfɪk, krɪpˈtɒɡrəfɪ /

noun

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

cryptography

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.

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

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of cryptography¹

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

Example Sentences

Biden also signed the Quantum Computing Cybersecurity Preparedness Act, a law mandating that federal agencies migrate vulnerable systems to quantum-resistant cryptography.

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His novels move with kinetic energy, his plots are intricate puzzles shrouded in religious iconography, ancient cryptography and other obscure arcana.

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His work could lead to advances in cryptography that may eventually make online systems — such as those used for financial transactions — more secure.

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A number of adversaries who stole material encoded by cryptography were then able to regain ongoing access to the victims' SharePoint data, he said.

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"The whole system is massively encrypted and secured using the government's own highest standards of cryptography," she said.

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