Word
coded
Phoneticscod·ed
US/ˈkoʊdɪd/
UK/kˈəʊdɪd/
Definitions
02written in secret symbols
adj. written using a secret system of letters or numbers so others cannot read it easily.
adj. converted into a code or cipher to ensure confidentiality or restricted access.
“The spies sent a coded message that only the general could understand.”
“The historian spent years attempting to decipher the coded entries in the diplomat's private wartime journals.”
03having specific traits
adj. used to describe someone who acts like a certain type of person or character, even if they don't say it.
adj. portrayed or behaving in a manner that suggests specific traits or identities without explicit confirmation.
“That character in the movie is definitely 'villain coded' because of his dark clothes and sharp voice.”
“Critics argued that the protagonist was clearly coded as a tragic hero, despite the script's attempt to maintain a neutral tone.”
Informal · Slang
Usage
Often used in compounds like 'villain-coded' or 'golden-retriever-coded'.
Teaching tip
This is a very modern slang term popular on social media; it describes subtext rather than literal facts.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Real-World Examples
“Historically, some less common forms of heart attack, which evidence shows typically affect women far more than men, have been coded as less important, with treatment and care often worse as a result.” “Some politicians argue the language around High Street decline is in danger of becoming racially coded.” Scan code
englishreference.com/q/coded