password

noun

pass·​word ˈpas-ˌwərd 

plural passwords

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

: watchword

Synonyms of password

• word

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

Gaining access to your password is more complicated than using AI to decrypt your account details, experts say. — Auzinea Bacon, CNN Money, 4 Aug. 2026

Iran is the prime suspect in the cyberattacks, which can blind utility operators by changing passwords or disabling alarms, according to the sources, though its involvement has not been officially confirmed. — Luke Barr, ABC News, 4 Aug. 2026

Everyone knows that passwords need to be strong and unique, and they should be kept secret. — Davey Winder, Forbes.com, 4 Aug. 2026

Use a long, unique password and turn on two-factor authentication. — Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 2 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1799, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for password

• absurd
• averred
• bluebird
• byword
• catbird
• catchword
• concurred
• conferred
• cowbird
• cowherd
• crossword
• deferred

Kids Definition

password

noun

pass·​word -ˌwərd 

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