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

• countersign
• watchword
• 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

Both have warned that passwords are less secure than an already available and easier to use alternative. —Davey Winder, Forbes, 20 Nov. 2024

This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification beyond your password. —Kurt Knutsson, Cyberguy Report, Fox News, 20 Nov. 2024

At a minimum, require a password or biometric scan to unlock the device. —Kelvin Chan, The Denver Post, 9 Nov. 2024

Election officials learned last week that the spreadsheet, which held the passwords in a hidden tab, was available online. —Jesse Bedayn, Fortune, 30 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1799, in the meaning defined at sense 1

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