cryptograph

noun

cryp·​to·​graph ˈkrip-tə-ˌgraf How to pronounce cryptograph (audio)
: cryptogram

Word History

Etymology

crypto- + -graph, after cryptography

Note: Popularized in Edgar Allan Poe's short story "The Gold Bug" (1843), though use of the word preceded Poe's story.

First Known Use

1839, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of cryptograph was in 1839

Rhymes for cryptograph

See All Rhymes for cryptograph

Browse Nearby Words

Cryptogramma
cryptograph
cryptographer
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Cryptograph.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cryptograph. Accessed 28 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

cryptograph

noun
cryp·​to·​graph ˈkrip-tə-ˌgraf How to pronounce cryptograph (audio)
: cryptogram
cryptographic
ˌkrip-tə-ˈgraf-ik
adjective
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