encode

verb

en·​code in-ˈkōd 

en-

encoded; encoding; encodes

transitive verb

1

a

: to convert (something, such as a body of information) from one system of communication into another

especially : to convert (a message) into code

b

: to convey symbolically

… the capacity of poetry to encode ideology …

—J. D. Niles

2

: to specify the genetic code for

encoder noun

Examples of encode in a Sentence

Credit cards are encoded with cardholder information.

a technology that encodes images

Recent Examples on the Web

Their calendars, for instance, encode a sophisticated awareness of astronomical cycles that demands advanced calculations. — Joseph Howlett, Scientific American, 13 July 2026

But only recently has this process been encoded so specifically onto the face, traditionally thought of as a portal to our humanity. — Jia Tolentino, New Yorker, 11 July 2026

Rather than storing information electromagnetically, the resonators encode data through tiny vibrations. — Georgina Jedikovska, Interesting Engineering, 9 July 2026

Humans operating under pressure and at machine speed create risky automation, and many organizations have built nothing to identify those risky behaviors before it gets encoded into an agent. — Beth Miller, Forbes.com, 8 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1919, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Rhymes for encode

• abode
• anode
• barcode
• bestowed
• boatload
• borrowed
• carload
• caseload
• cathode
• commode
• corrode
• crossroad

Kids Definition

encode

verb

en·​code in-ˈkōd 

en-

: to change (as a body of information) from one system of communication into another

especially : to change (a message) into code

encoder noun

Medical Definition

encode

transitive verb

en·​code in-ˈkōd, en- 

encoded; encoding

: to specify the genetic code for

each nucleotide triplet or codon on the mRNA chain encodes a specific amino acid

—J. E. Darnell, Jr.