encode

verb

en·​code in-ˈkōd 

en-

encoded; encoding; encodes

transitive verb

1

a

: to convert (something, such as a body of information) from one system of communication into another

especially : to convert (a message) into code

b

: to convey symbolically

the capacity of poetry to encode ideology

—J. D. Niles

2

: to specify the genetic code for

encoder noun

Examples of encode in a Sentence

Credit cards are encoded with cardholder information.

a technology that encodes images

Recent Examples on the Web

The researchers knew that spatial navigation and episodic memories are encoded in the temporal lobe, specifically in the medial entorhinal cortex (MEC). —Avery Hurt, Discover Magazine, 2 May 2025

But now and then, we are reminded of the true potential encoded in our digital platforms. —Miles Klee, Rolling Stone, 29 Apr. 2025

This is the notion that all the information within a three-dimensional volume of space can be encoded on a surrounding two-dimensional surface, akin to a hologram. —Lee Billings, Scientific American, 7 Apr. 2025

This suggests that the information is being better encoded as a memory, priming them to recognize it next time. —Michael Irving, New Atlas, 20 Mar. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1919, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Rhymes for encode

• abode
• anode
• barcode
• bestowed
• boatload
• borrowed
• carload
• caseload
• cathode
• commode
• corrode
• crossroad

Kids Definition

encode

verb

en·​code in-ˈkōd 

en-

: to change (as a body of information) from one system of communication into another

especially : to change (a message) into code

encoder noun

Medical Definition

encode

transitive verb

en·​code in-ˈkōd, en- 

encoded; encoding

: to specify the genetic code for

each nucleotide triplet or codon on the mRNA chain encodes a specific amino acid

—J. E. Darnell, Jr.