Definition

Noun: A secret word, phrase, or string of characters that must be used to gain access to a restricted place, system, or piece of information. It is a form of authentication to verify identity.

Usage

A password is used to control access. It is typically entered alongside a username or account identifier. - Creating/Setting a password: "You must create a strong password for your new email account." - Entering/Using a password: "Please enter your password to log in." - Knowing/Remembering a password: "She knows the password to the Wi-Fi network."

Examples

• "I can't remember my password for the banking website."
• "The system will prompt you to change your password every 90 days."
• "The secret club's password was 'blue moon'."

Advanced Usage

• "Password-protected" (adjective): Secured by requiring a password for access.
  • The document is password-protected, so I cannot open it without the key.
• To password-protect (verb): The act of securing something with a password.
  • You should password-protect your laptop.

Variants and Related Words

• Passcode (noun): Often a numeric-only password, commonly used for phones or brief access.
• Passphrase (noun): A longer sequence of words used as a password, often considered more secure.
• PIN (Personal Identification Number) (noun): A short numeric password, typically for banking or devices.

Synonyms

• Code word
• Watchword
• Secret key

Related Phrases and Idioms

• "What's the password?": A direct question asking for the secret word to gain entry or access. This can be used literally or humorously.
  • He knocked on the treehouse door and his friend inside called out, "What's the password?"

Noun

1. a secret word or phrase known only to a restricted group
   • he forgot the password