Word
Definitions
01computing and digital access
A1 · Beginner Countable noun Computing
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.
日本語:パスワード※
“You should never share your email password with anyone else.”
“The system administrator enforced a policy requiring a complex password that included uppercase letters, numbers, and special characters.”
Usage
Often used with the verbs 'enter', 'reset', or 'change'.
Synonyms
02physical entry
B1 · Intermediate Countable noun Military
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.
日本語:合言葉※
“The guard asked for the password before opening the gate to the camp.”
“In the historical drama, the resistance members used a changing daily password to ensure no spies could enter their secret meeting room.”
Synonyms
03to protect with a code
B2 · Upper Intermediate Computing Technical
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.
“I decided to password the document so that only my manager could read it.”
“The software allows users to password individual folders, providing an extra layer of security for sensitive financial data.”
Usage
This transitive verb is often used in the past participle form 'passworded'.
Collocations
Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “password” in context.
Verb
01. enter a password
“Please enter your password to log in to the secure portal.”
verb + noun
02. protect the account with a password
“It is essential to protect your bank account with a strong password.”
verb + noun + prep + noun
03. reset the password
“If you have forgotten your credentials, you can reset the password via email.”
verb + noun
Adjective
04. incorrect password
“The application denied access because an incorrect password was provided three times.”
adj + noun
05. strong password
“A strong password should include a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols.”
adj + noun
06. temporary password
“The system will issue a temporary password that you must change after your first login.”
adj + noun
Noun
07. password hint
“If you can't remember your code, the password hint might help you recall it.”
noun + noun
08. password protection
“We added password protection to the folder to keep the sensitive documents private.”
noun + noun
Real-World Examples
“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.” Etymology
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.
Domains
- 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
- Common
- Level
- B2 · Upper IntermediateOxford
- Updated
- アルファベット
- 読み方の一覧 →
QR code
englishreference.com/q/password
※ 機械で選んだ訳語です。ネイティブスピーカーによる確認はまだです。
「日本語」「カタカナ語」 data: JMdict (EDRDG), CC BY-SA 4.0