authenticator

American  

[aw-then-ti-key-ter] / ɔˈθɛn tɪˌkeɪ tər /

noun

1. a person or thing that authenticates.

2. Cryptography. a code used to authenticate a previously transmitted code.

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Etymology

Origin of authenticator

First recorded in 1860–65; authenticate + -or ²

Example Sentences

Elsewhere in the warehouse, an authenticator uses a device smaller than a stapler to scan a Louis Vuitton tote to help determine whether the leather, stitching and branding are authentic.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 21, 2026

Justin Ferretti, a top-level authenticator, also smells the leather and removes the gloves that workers in this area of the warehouse tend to wear to feel the leather.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 21, 2026

He also recommended adding a PIN number to the sim card, which can be done in a phone's settings, and the use of authenticator apps to generate random codes, instead of ones sent by text.

From BBC • Mar. 3, 2025

Once the hologram was affixed, the authenticator handed it back to Smith, who said, “I’m gonna give it to Walker.”

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 31, 2024

Keeper's message simultaneously loaded into the recon-patroller's computer as authenticator for the mission and demolition and laser gun settings.

From The Universe — or Nothing by Moldeven, Meyer