encryption

noun

en·​cryp·​tion in-ˈkrip-shən How to pronounce encryption (audio)
en-
plural encryptions
1
: the act or process of encrypting something : a conversion of something (such as data) into a code or cipher
The regulations … make it harder to provide automatic encryption of information as it passes through the dozens of links in a typical Internet connection …Paul Wallich
… a hacker slips into a system, then puts encryption controls in place that locks users out.Elizabeth Millard
2
: a code or cipher produced by encrypting something
Artificial intelligence can decode encryptions that previously could not be cracked.Ana Swanson

Examples of encryption in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Kyber developers are hoping the impression that the encryption has overwhelming strength will sway people to pay. Dan Goodin, ArsTechnica, 23 Apr. 2026 Syncing works across platforms, including Linux, and file sharing stays simple without compromising encryption. Stackcommerce Team, PC Magazine, 21 Apr. 2026 The slowness of encryption forces them to triage. Julian Lucas, New Yorker, 20 Apr. 2026 The project, known as QUASAR-CREATE, seeks to address a specific vulnerability in modern digital infrastructure, which is the eventual ability of quantum computers to bypass current encryption methods. Aman Tripathi, Interesting Engineering, 15 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for encryption

Word History

First Known Use

1953, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of encryption was in 1953

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Encryption.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.grautoblog.com/dictionary/encryption. Accessed 25 Apr. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on encryption

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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

More from Merriam-Webster