encode

1 of 2

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

encoder

2 of 2

noun

en·​cod·​er

-də(r)

: one that encodes

especially : cipher machine

Examples of encode in a Sentence

Verb

Credit cards are encoded with cardholder information.

a technology that encodes images

Recent Examples on the Web

Verb

The expertise being encoded into these systems is not generic. — Shann Biglione, Forbes.com, 27 July 2026

Much of what the model has learned is encoded in those numbers. — Jacek Krywko, Scientific American, 23 July 2026

This gene encodes a protein called OXO, short for oxalate oxidase, which breaks down oxalic acid, the fungus’s key weapon for invading and killing plant tissues. — Steve Strauss, The Conversation, 22 July 2026

Languages also encode values—gender hierarchies baked into pronouns, honorifics that perpetuate caste distinctions—that liberal-minded activists may not be eager to preserve as valuable pieces of linguistic heritage. — Nikhil Krishnan, New Yorker, 20 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Verb

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.