encryption
noun
en·cryp·tion
in-ˈkrip-shən 
en-
plural encryptions
1
: the act or process of encrypting something : a conversion of something (such as data) into a code or cipher
The regulations … make it harder to provide automatic encryption of information as it passes through the dozens of links in a typical Internet connection …—
Paul Wallich
Paul Wallich… a hacker slips into a system, then puts encryption controls in place that locks users out.—Elizabeth Millard
Elizabeth Millard2
: a code or cipher produced by encrypting something
Artificial intelligence can decode encryptions that previously could not be cracked.—Ana Swanson
Ana Swanson
Examples of encryption in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
The platform employs industry-standard security protocols, such as encryption and two-factor authentication, to safeguard user data and prevent unauthorized access.
—Stephanie Tsai, The Hollywood Reporter, 8 Apr. 2024
Once ransomware uses encryption to lock away your files and data without a key, the losses can be as catastrophic as those in an uncontrolled fire.
—Neil McAllister, PCMAG, 31 Mar. 2024
The two platforms use different encryption protocols.
—Zak Doffman, Forbes, 30 Mar. 2024
Concurrent with the exhibit, the museum will offer programs inspired by the Bond films and focused on spycraft, intelligence and encryption.
—Leslie Katz, Forbes, 29 Mar. 2024
Moreover, by utilizing data encryption, anonymization, and clear privacy policies, LENX remains committed to preventing unwitting bias in AI algorithms.
—William Mullane, USA TODAY, 27 Mar. 2024
Without encryption, all communications would be potentially subject to snooping.
—David Kaye, Foreign Affairs, 21 Mar. 2024
The documents show how internet officials from the two countries met in 2017 and 2019 to share information about combating encryption, blocking foreign sites and curtailing protests.
—Aaron Krolik, New York Times, 15 Mar. 2024
The United Kingdom is far from alone among democracies considering bans or other obstacles to strong encryption.
—Joseph Menn, Washington Post, 5 Mar. 2024
Stephanie Tsai, The Hollywood Reporter, 8 Apr. 2024
Once ransomware uses encryption to lock away your files and data without a key, the losses can be as catastrophic as those in an uncontrolled fire.
—Neil McAllister, PCMAG, 31 Mar. 2024
The two platforms use different encryption protocols.
—Zak Doffman, Forbes, 30 Mar. 2024
Concurrent with the exhibit, the museum will offer programs inspired by the Bond films and focused on spycraft, intelligence and encryption.
—Leslie Katz, Forbes, 29 Mar. 2024
Moreover, by utilizing data encryption, anonymization, and clear privacy policies, LENX remains committed to preventing unwitting bias in AI algorithms.
—William Mullane, USA TODAY, 27 Mar. 2024
Without encryption, all communications would be potentially subject to snooping.
—David Kaye, Foreign Affairs, 21 Mar. 2024
The documents show how internet officials from the two countries met in 2017 and 2019 to share information about combating encryption, blocking foreign sites and curtailing protests.
—Aaron Krolik, New York Times, 15 Mar. 2024
The United Kingdom is far from alone among democracies considering bans or other obstacles to strong encryption.
—Joseph Menn, Washington Post, 5 Mar. 2024
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'encryption.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Word History
First Known Use
1953, in the meaning defined at sense 1
Articles Related to encryption
Dictionary Entries Near encryption
Cite this Entry
“Encryption.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/encryption. Accessed 16 Apr. 2024.
Copy Citation
More from Merriam-Webster on encryption
Nglish: Translation of encryption for Spanish Speakers
Britannica English: Translation of encryption for Arabic Speakers
Love words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share