noun

encryption

/ɪnˈkrɪpʃən/ · say it: in·KRIP·shun

encoding data so only authorized parties can read it

In Technology & Computing

In more detail

1. (noun) the process of converting information into a code so that only authorized people can read it

2. (noun) the coded form of information that has been converted this way

Examples

1. Encryption protects your passwords when you send them over the internet.
2. The message was sent in encryption so no one could intercept it.

How to use encryption

Encryption is used in both technical and general contexts to describe the process of securing sensitive data or information. It is commonly used in cybersecurity, computing, and communications to emphasize protection against unauthorized access. The term is neutral and non-judgmental, unlike terms like 'obfuscation' which can carry negative connotations.

Common phrases

end-to-end encryption
data encryption
encryption key
encryption algorithm
military-grade encryption
break encryption

Synonyms

encoding · ciphering · scrambling · obfuscation · encipherment

Opposites

decryption · decoding

Word family

encrypt (verb) · encrypted (adjective) · decryption (noun) · decrypt (verb)

A common mistake

Learners sometimes confuse encryption (the encoding process) with decryption (the decoding process), or forget that encryption requires a key for both securing and unlocking the information.

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