# cryptographic

/kɹˌɪptəɡɹˈæfɪk/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/cryptographic
Updated: 2026-05-30

## Definition

relating to the use of secret codes to protect information. You use this to describe systems or methods that keep data safe from being read by the wrong people.

For teachers: relating to the practice of encoding and decoding information to ensure confidentiality and security. Often used in technical contexts to describe algorithms or protocols.

## Examples

- The software uses cryptographic methods to protect your files.
- Modern banking relies on cryptographic keys to ensure that only the intended recipient can access sensitive financial data.
- The researcher presented a new cryptographic protocol designed to prevent man-in-the-middle attacks while maintaining the efficiency required for high-speed data transmission.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.
