code word

noun

Examples of code word in a Sentence

The code word “conflict” has been used for what some people are calling a war.
Recent Examples on the Web
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
As Jamie divulges the details of the enterprise, including the special code words staff must use in the presence of The Butcher, Cooper gets increasingly nervous. Lovia Gyarkye, The Hollywood Reporter, 1 Aug. 2024 Kingsley suggests having a code word with your friends and family to verify their identity. Betty Lin-Fisher, USA TODAY, 4 June 2024 The posts are promptly posted and removed with code words and emojis used to market and sell illicit drugs. Nickolaus Hayes, New York Daily News, 16 June 2024 Whereas other sites and apps almost eliminated drug postings after scrutiny by law enforcement, dealers on Craigslist seemingly remained active using code words. Kevinisha Walker, Los Angeles Times, 8 June 2024 See all Example Sentences for code word 

Word History

First Known Use

1884, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of code word was in 1884

Dictionary Entries Near code word

Cite this Entry

“Code word.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/code%20word. Accessed 17 Nov. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on code word

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!