paywall

noun

pay·​wall ˈpā-ˌwȯl How to pronounce paywall (audio)
: a system that prevents Internet users from accessing certain web content without a paid subscription

Examples of paywall 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.
In that vein, could Netflix try to move Savannah Bananas behind a paywall? — Jacob Feldman, Sportico.com, 21 Oct. 2026 First announced in May, the new Memberships subscription feature is starting to roll out in 34 regions today, allowing podcasters to offer perks including additional content, early access, bonus episodes, and reduced ads behind a paywall. — Jess Weatherbed, The Verge, 20 Oct. 2026 But according to research by the Exit Planning Institute (paywall), up to 80% of most business owners’ wealth is locked up in their company. — Hanneke Antonelli, Forbes.com, 13 Oct. 2026 To date, the vast majority of original content produced for streaming platforms has debuted and sat behind a paywall. — Jesse Whittock, Deadline, 11 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for paywall

Word History

Etymology

pay entry 1 + firewall

First Known Use

2004, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of paywall was in 2004

Rhymes for paywall

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Browse Nearby Words

pay up
paywall
pay with one's life
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Paywall.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/paywall. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

paywall

noun
pay·​wall ˈpā-ˌwȯl How to pronounce paywall (audio)
: a system that prevents Internet users from accessing certain Web content without a paid subscription
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