# zero trust

CEFR C1 · Compound

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/zero-trust
Updated: 2026-07-22

## Definition

a security model for computers and networks that assumes no person or device should be trusted by default. Even if someone is already inside a network, they must prove who they are every time they try to access a new file or app.

For teachers: a strategic approach to cybersecurity that eliminates implicit trust and requires continuous verification of every user and device. Operates on the principle of 'never trust, always verify' regardless of whether the connection originates inside or outside the network perimeter.

## Examples

- Our company is moving to a zero trust security model.
- By implementing zero trust, the IT department ensured that a single compromised password would not grant an attacker access to the entire corporate database.
- The transition to a zero trust architecture requires granular access controls and robust identity management to verify every request before granting the minimum necessary permissions.

## Usage notes

- Often used as a compound noun or as an attributive modifier before 'security', 'model', or 'architecture'.

---

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.