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.
Still, law enforcement cannot walk into your house, update your router or change the password printed on an old sticker. Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 14 June 2026 Quicken LifeHub is a life organization system that stores key information for your family, including wills, health directives, internet passwords, travel documents and emergency health information. Amy Deyoung, USA Today, 12 June 2026 Before the 2024 presidential election, her office leaked hundreds of passwords to election equipment online and didn't alert county clerks. Shaun Boyd, CBS News, 12 June 2026 Pick one high-volume, low-complexity use case, like order status questions, password resets, or basic account inquiries. Allbusiness, Forbes.com, 11 June 2026 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 17 Jun. 2026.

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

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