password
- 01 A1 Beginner
n.a secret string of letters, numbers, or symbols used to log in to a computer, website, or app.
n.a sequence of characters used to authenticate a user's identity for access to a computer system, network, or digital account.
Simple“You should never share your email password with anyone else.”
In context“The system administrator enforced a policy requiring a complex password that included uppercase letters, numbers, and special characters.”
UsageOften used with the verbs 'enter', 'reset', or 'change'.
Synonyms - 02 B1 Intermediate
n.a secret word or phrase you must say to a guard or person to be allowed into a place.
n.a prearranged word or phrase used to gain admittance to a restricted area or to identify oneself to a sentry.
Simple“The guard asked for the password before opening the gate to the camp.”
In context“In the historical drama, the resistance members used a changing daily password to ensure no spies could enter their secret meeting room.”
Synonymscountersignwatchword - 03 B2 Upper Intermediate
v.to protect a file or device by requiring a secret code to open it.
v.to secure a digital file, directory, or device by implementing password protection.
Simple“I decided to password the document so that only my manager could read it.”
In context“The software allows users to password individual folders, providing an extra layer of security for sensitive financial data.”
UsageThis transitive verb is often used in the past participle form 'passworded'.
“This risk has always been present and is the reason some people regard password managers as unsafe to use.”
“This could mean changing a password, issuing commands or attempting to alter the controller’s software.”
From pass + word. The sentry-passing sense predates the cryptographic sense and was its inspiration.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.