securer; securest
1
a
: protected from danger or harm
We need to make our network more secure against attacks by hackers.
The children were safe and secure in their beds.
A safe is provided to keep your valuables secure from potential thieves.
b
: providing protection from danger or harm
You should store your valuables in a secure place.
How secure is your front door?
c
: guarded so that no one can enter or leave without approval
You are now entering a secure area.
(chiefly Brit) a secure unit for young offenders
2
: feeling safe and free from worries or doubt : confident
I'm feeling secure about my place in the company.
I was secure in the belief/knowledge that I had done all I could. [=I felt confident because I believed/knew that I had done all I could]
They are financially secure. [=they have enough money to live on; they do not have to worry about money]
3
a
: firmly attached
Is that shelf secure?
Make sure the door is secure. [=shut tightly]
b
: in a firm position that prevents unwanted movement
a secure grip
secure footing
c
: not in danger of being lost or taken away
The company has established a secure foothold in the market.
He believes his job is secure.
a secure investment
They didn't begin to celebrate until they knew their victory was secure.
4
: known only to certain people
You can access your bank account online using a secure [=secret] password.
secures; secured; securing
somewhat formal
1
a
: to make (something) safe by guarding or protecting it
Police secured the building.
We must secure the country's borders.
b
: to put (something) in a place or position so that it will not move
Secure your belongings under the seat.
secure a child safety seat
The metal rod is secured (in place) with a pin.
The seat is secured to the base by three screws.
2
: to make (something) certain
She scored a goal to secure the team's victory.
She secured the zoo's future with a handsome bequest.
3
: to guarantee that (an amount owed) will be paid usually by offering your property if you cannot pay
He secured a loan using his house as collateral.
4
: to get (something) by using effort : obtain
We secured permission to visit the school.
I secured a place in the final round.
He secured a position with the insurance company.
He secured her release.
Cite this Entry
“Secure.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/secure. Accessed 23 Apr. 2026.
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