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password

noun

pass·​word ˈpas-ˌwərd How to pronounce password (audio)
plural passwords
Synonyms of passwordnext
1
: something that enables one to pass or gain admission: such as
a
: a spoken word or phrase required to pass by a guard
b
: a sequence of characters required for access to a computer system or digital device compare passcode
2

Synonyms of password

Examples of password in a Sentence

You need to enter your password to check your e-mail. the password for the all-night rave will be changed next week
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Canon added a password lock as an anti-theft feature. PC Magazine, 1 Dec. 2025 A student assistant, working in the other room, was summoned to provide the Wi-Fi password. Jake Offenhartz, New Yorker, 1 Dec. 2025 Attackers often gather email addresses, phone numbers, old passwords and personal details from data broker sites. Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 29 Nov. 2025 NordVPN offers security features like ad and tracker blockers, malware protection, a password manager and more. Alexander Cox, Space.com, 28 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for password

Word History

First Known Use

1799, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of password was in 1799

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Cite this Entry

“Password.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/password. Accessed 5 Dec. 2025.

Kids Definition

password

noun
pass·​word -ˌwərd How to pronounce password (audio)
1
: a word or phrase that must be spoken by a person in order to pass a guard
2
: a secret series of numbers or letters required for access to a computer

More from Merriam-Webster on password

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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