encrypt

[en-kript]

verb (used with object)

1. to convert (a message or the like) into cipher or code.

   The letter was encrypted before being mailed to protect it from any prying eyes.

2. Computers.,  to change (digital data) into a form that cannot be read without converting it back using a unique key.

   The protocol encrypts all of your personal information, including credit card number, name, and address, so that it cannot be stolen.

encrypt

/ ɪnˈkrɪpt /

verb

1. to put (a message) into code

2. to put (computer data) into a coded form

3. to distort (a television or other signal) so that it cannot be understood without the appropriate decryption equipment

encrypt

1. To alter information using a code or mathematical algorithm so as to be unintelligible to unauthorized readers.

Other Word Forms

• encryption noun
• encrypted adjective
• encryptation noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of encrypt¹

First recorded in 1940–45; en- ¹ + -crypt (abstracted from cryptic ( def. ), cryptography ( def. ), etc.), modeled on encode ( def. )

Word History and Origins

Origin of encrypt¹

C20: from _en- ¹ + crypt, as in _crypto-

Example Sentences

In February, it emerged the government had demanded to be able to access encrypted data stored by Apple users worldwide in its cloud service.

From BBC

The clubs commonly use encrypted messaging apps such as Telegram, Wire and Matrix to coordinate internally.

From Salon

Wei called his Chinese contact "Big Brother Andy" and obliged requests to keep their relationship secret by using multiple encrypted apps to communicate and accept payments.

From BBC

Shortly after the Los Angeles Times and TMZ published news of Perry’s death, according to the plea agreement, Sangha called Fleming on the encrypted messaging app Signal to discuss how to distance themselves from it.

From Los Angeles Times

In the spring of 2020, international law enforcement agencies hacked into an encrypted phone network trusted by criminals around the world.

From BBC

Related Words

• encipher