Word
encryption
Phoneticsen·cryp·tion, stress on the second syllable
US/ɛnˈkɹɪpʃən/
UK/ɛnkɹˈɪpʃən/
Definitions
01the process of coding data
B2 · Upper Intermediate Uncountable noun Computing Technical
n. the act of changing information into a secret code to keep it safe.
n. the process of encoding information so that only authorised parties can access it. Uncountable in this general sense.
“The app uses strong encryption to protect your private messages from hackers.”
“Modern banking relies on end-to-end encryption to ensure that sensitive financial data remains secure during transmission across public networks.”
Usage
Often used with the preposition 'of' when describing the data being protected.
Teaching tip
Learners often confuse this with 'coding'; explain that encryption specifically implies security and secrecy.
Synonyms
Antonyms
02the encrypted result
C1 · Advanced Uncountable noun Computing Technical
n. a piece of information that has already been turned into a secret code.
n. a specific instance of ciphertext or an encrypted value. Often used with 'of' followed by the original value.
“The computer displayed a long encryption of the original password.”
“The researcher analysed the encryption of the intercepted signal, looking for patterns that might reveal the underlying algorithm.”
Usage
Can be used as a countable noun when referring to specific instances of encoded strings.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Real-World Examples
“OpenAI says it has multiple protections against theft of its models, including encryption and continuous monitoring.” “And one day, I thought, 'Let me have a look at this thing again.’ And I couldn't remember the password.” Over the years, Jenkin and others tried to break the encryption, and failed.” “The module is a tamper-resistant device that provides a secure environment for certain functions, such as encryption and decryption, to occur.” Etymology
From encrypt + -ion.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
VERB
NOUN
Domain
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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QR code
englishreference.com/q/encryption