encrypt

verb

en·​crypt in-ˈkript 

en-

encrypted; encrypting; encrypts

transitive verb

1

: encipher

2

: encode sense 1a

Examples of encrypt in a Sentence

The software will encrypt the message before it is sent.

Recent Examples on the Web

Once the original data was encrypted, the men and others involved in the scheme would allegedly extort the victims for ransom payments in exchange for keys that would allow the victims to access the data again. —Kerry Breen, CBS News, 11 Feb. 2025

For example: Ransomware: A wealth management firm lost access to client records after hackers encrypted their systems. —Garrett Vanderpool, Kansas City Star, 5 Feb. 2025

Even if banking information, for instance, is encrypted, that wouldn’t protect all the unprotected personal data that passes through an unprotected, vulnerable home router. —Kevin Williams, CNBC, 26 Jan. 2025

United promises the entire process is seamless and end-to-end encrypted, and the location sharing stops automatically once you’re reunited with your luggage. —Duncan Madden, Forbes, 22 Jan. 2025

Word History

Etymology

en- entry 1 + -crypt (in cryptanalysis, cryptogram), perhaps after decrypt

First Known Use

1944, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

encrypt

verb

en·​crypt

in-ˈkript

: to change (information) from one form to another especially to hide its meaning

encrypt the message

encryption

-ˈkrip-shən

noun