password

noun

pass·​word ˈpas-ˌwərd How to pronounce password (audio)
plural passwords
Synonyms of passwordnext
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 of password

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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
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.
That includes account numbers, birth dates, passwords and pins, signatures or Social Security numbers. — Andee Tagle, NPR, 29 Oct. 2026 Use strong antivirus software to help detect malicious links, block dangerous websites and protect against malware designed to steal your passwords. — Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 28 Oct. 2026 The password had allegedly been changed and the account switched to a lookalike email address. — Colson Thayer, PEOPLE, 28 Oct. 2026 Remember not to enter passwords or credit card numbers into AI chats and instead only use secure platforms. — Marty Swant, Washington Post, 27 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for password

Word History

First Known Use

1799, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of password was in 1799

Rhymes for password

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Browse Nearby Words

passway
password
Passy
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Cite this Entry

“Password.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/password. Accessed 1 Nov. 2026.

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Kids Definition

password

noun
pass·​word -ˌwərd How to pronounce password (audio)
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

More from Merriam-Webster on password

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about password

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