# encryption

/ɛnˈkɹɪpʃən/ (US) · /ɛnkɹˈɪpʃən/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/encryption
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. the process of coding data

noun · CEFR B2 · Technical

the act of changing information into a secret code to keep it safe.

For teachers: 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.

### 2. the encrypted result

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical

a piece of information that has already been turned into a secret code.

For teachers: 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.

## Examples

- Encryption keeps your messages private.
- The company uses strong encryption to protect customer passwords.
- Modern encryption algorithms rely on complex mathematical problems that are easy to solve in one direction but nearly impossible to reverse without a key.

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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.