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.
Quicken uses bank-level encryption and supports multi-factor authentication, requiring both passwords and secondary verification codes for account access. Angelica Leicht, CBS News, 15 Dec. 2025 Weak routers and poor passwords can allow strangers to access a feed. Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 14 Dec. 2025 Standout features Avira is a highly effective antivirus offering that scores well on third-party performance tests and is packed with security features, including a VPN and password manager. Evan Zimmer, CNBC, 9 Dec. 2025 The heist and the password issues appear to be unrelated to the leak. Brian Anthony Hernandez, PEOPLE, 8 Dec. 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 17 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

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