encrypt

verb

en·​crypt in-ˈkript How to pronounce encrypt (audio)
en-
encrypted; encrypting; encrypts
Synonyms of encryptnext

transitive verb

1
: encipher
2
: encode sense 1a

Examples of encrypt in a Sentence

The software will encrypt the message before it is sent.
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.
Only Fortitude could be accessed by thieves, solely due to the production company’s failure to encrypt the drive, the spokesperson alleged. — Ashley Belanger, ArsTechnica, 31 July 2026 Ransomware and extortion have evolved into comprehensive ecosystems, incorporating elements such as affiliate programs, subscription services, and encrypted money laundering. — Chuck Brooks, Forbes.com, 31 July 2026 The goal is to encrypt a message so that someone who gets hold of it cannot split it into two usable versions that both reveal the message once the decrypting key is known. — Peter Hall, Scientific American, 31 July 2026 Files are also split and encrypted into fragments for extra protection, and the service itself is open-source and independently audited. — Stackcommerce Team, PC Magazine, 23 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for encrypt

Word History

Etymology

en- entry 1 + -crypt (in cryptanalysis, cryptogram), perhaps after decrypt

First Known Use

1944, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of encrypt was in 1944

Rhymes for encrypt

See All Rhymes for encrypt

Browse Nearby Words

encrustation
encrypt
encryption
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Encrypt.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/encrypt. Accessed 5 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

encrypt

verb
en·​crypt in-ˈkript How to pronounce encrypt (audio)
: to change (information) from one form to another especially to hide its meaning
encrypt the message
encryption
-ˈkrip-shən
noun

More from Merriam-Webster on encrypt

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for encrypt

Nglish: Translation of encrypt for Spanish Speakers

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