authentication

American  

[aw-then-ti-key-shuhn] / ɔˌθɛn tɪˈkeɪ ʃən /

noun

1. the act or process of establishing something as genuine or authoritative.

   The requisite authentication was performed on each piece before it was donated to the museum.

2. Also called electronic authentication.  Digital Technology. the act or process of establishing identity and verifying permission to access an electronic device or computer network (often used attributively): biometric authentication;

   password authentication;

   biometric authentication;

   authentication credentials.

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Other Word Forms

• reauthentication noun

Etymology

Origin of authentication

First recorded in 1600–20; authenticat(e) ( def. ) + -ion ( def. )

Example Sentences

"Nature is a great choice from a banknote authentication perspective and means we can showcase the UK's rich and varied wildlife on the next series of banknotes," she added.

From Barron's • Mar. 12, 2026

But she said the key is "prevention and education", including limiting personal information online, using strong passwords and two-factor authentication, and being cautious before sending money or personal images.

From BBC • Mar. 11, 2026

That’s led to security concerns, as cybersecurity company Wiz identified a database misconfiguration in early February that left 1.5 million API authentication tokens, 35,000 email addresses and private messages between agents exposed.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 10, 2026

Microsoft provides a similar capability with its Authenticator app, which some people use for two-factor authentication in place of texted codes for signing into online accounts.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 11, 2025

"I needed authentication from the Attorney General," said the Warden.

From "Holes" by Louis Sachar

Related Words

• certification
• verification