paywall

noun

pay·​wall ˈpā-ˌwȯl 

: a system that prevents Internet users from accessing certain web content without a paid subscription

Examples of paywall in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Additionally, while Rocket Money has a free version, key features like net worth tracking are behind a paywall. — Faith Wakefield, USA Today, 7 Sep. 2026

In Michigan ICUs, a checklist drove infection rates down by 66% within three months (paywall). — Timor Brik, Forbes.com, 1 Sep. 2026

Filmmakers can host content on the platform at no cost and determine which films, programs or episodes are available for free or placed behind a paywall, while maintaining control over pricing, monetization and revenue. — Angelique Jackson, Variety, 28 Aug. 2026

After scuttling its costly standalone streaming product CNN+, the network last year introduced a paywall for much of its reporting. — Max Tani, semafor.com, 19 Aug. 2026

Word History

Etymology

pay entry 1 + firewall

First Known Use

2004, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for paywall

• aldol
• armhole
• atoll
• awol
• backhaul
• banal
• baseball
• befall
• cabal
• catchall
• cecal
• centrale

Kids Definition

paywall

noun

pay·​wall ˈpā-ˌwȯl 

: a system that prevents Internet users from accessing certain Web content without a paid subscription