Definition

Noun: A secret numeric password, chosen by and known only to an account holder, used to authenticate identity and authorize access to secure systems, especially for financial transactions or electronic services.

Usage

A personal identification number is a security credential. It is used as a key to verify a person's identity, typically when combined with a physical token like a bank card or a digital username. - You must enter your personal identification number to withdraw cash from an ATM. - The system will lock after three incorrect attempts to enter your personal identification number.

Advanced Usage

• PIN Security: Refers to the practices for keeping a PIN safe, such as not writing it down or sharing it.
  • Good PIN security is essential to prevent fraud.
• PIN Pad: The physical or on-screen keypad used to enter the number.
  • Always shield the PIN pad with your hand when typing.

Variants and Related Words

• PIN (noun): The common acronym for "personal identification number."
  • I forgot my PIN and couldn't access my account.
• Passcode (noun): A more general term for a numeric or alphanumeric secret used for access, often used interchangeably with PIN in digital contexts.
  • The phone's passcode is a four-digit number.

Synonyms

• Access code: A code used to gain entry to a system.
• Security code: A code designed to provide security for an account.

Related Phrases

• PIN Number: A common but technically redundant phrase (as "PIN" already includes "Number").
  • Please enter your PIN number. (Common in casual speech)
• PIN Entry: The act of inputting the PIN.
  • The transaction requires PIN entry to proceed.

Noun

1. a number you choose and use to gain access to various accounts