encryption

noun

en·​cryp·​tion in-ˈkrip-shən How to pronounce encryption (audio)
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
… a hacker slips into a system, then puts encryption controls in place that locks users out.Elizabeth Millard
2
: a code or cipher produced by encrypting something
Artificial intelligence can decode encryptions that previously could not be cracked.Ana Swanson

Examples of encryption in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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For now, the traditional advanced encryption standard (AES) remains the preferred approach on the cloud and the edge. Srinivas Shekar, Forbes.com, 8 Sep. 2025 The problem arose as the East Bay communications authority tried using the new encryption system on individual police agencies early Wednesday morning, beginning with the University of California Police Department, Swing said. Jakob Rodgers, Mercury News, 5 Sep. 2025 Someone nearby could connect to your network if your password is weak or your encryption is outdated. Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 4 Sep. 2025 It is backed by post-quantum encryption and prioritizes privacy, resulting in slower speeds compared with WireGuard. PC Magazine, 3 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for encryption

Word History

First Known Use

1953, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of encryption was in 1953

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Cite this Entry

“Encryption.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/encryption. Accessed 9 Sep. 2025.

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