password

[pas-wurd, pahs-]

noun

1. a secret word or expression used by authorized persons to prove their right to access, information, etc.

   Synonyms: watchword

2. a word or other string of characters, sometimes kept secret or confidential, that must be supplied by a user in order to gain full or partial access to a computer, computer system, or electronic device.

password

/ ˈpɑːsˌwɜːd /

noun

1. a secret word, phrase, etc, that ensures admission or acceptance by proving identity, membership, etc

2. an action, quality, etc, that gains admission or acceptance

3. a sequence of characters used to gain access to a computer system

Word History and Origins

Origin of password¹

First recorded in 1810–20; pass + word

Example Sentences

Fraudsters send fake text messages - apparently from a bank or other trusted company - to trick people into disclosing personal information such as passwords and Pin numbers.

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As data travels over the internet to that website, the data is encrypted, so passwords, for example, aren’t intercepted.

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The email said: “If this was you, you’re all set! If this wasn’t you, please change your password.”

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In the video game world, conquering the “cheat code” means a player has figured out the secret password to stay alive.

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Mr Jubair has also been charged with failing to provide passwords for his devices.

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Related Words

• identification