Authenticator: meaning, definitions and examples

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authenticator

 

[ ɔːˈθɛntɪkeɪtə ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

security device

An authenticator is a security device used to verify the identity of a user attempting to access a system or account. It typically involves a two-step verification process, such as entering a password followed by a unique code sent to a registered device.

Synonyms

security token, verification device.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
authenticator

Use this term when referring to a person or system that confirms the identity of a user. It emphasizes the process of authentication.

  • The authenticator verified the user's credentials before granting access.
  • You need to enter your password and the code from the authenticator.
security token

This term is best used when describing a physical device or digital code that provides additional security during login processes. It is often used in financial or corporate settings.

  • Make sure to carry your security token with you for secure access to the network.
  • The bank issues security tokens to its customers for online transactions.
verification device

This phrase is used when talking about a tool or gadget specifically designed to confirm the identity of an individual. It can include anything from smartphones to specialized hardware.

  • Use your verification device to complete the two-factor authentication process.
  • The verification device sent a code to ensure it was truly you trying to log in.

Examples of usage

  • The authenticator app on my phone generates a new code every 30 seconds for added security.
  • I use an authenticator key to access my online banking account.
Context #2 | Noun

person who authenticates

An authenticator can also refer to a person who verifies or confirms the authenticity or validity of something, such as a work of art or a document.

Synonyms

validator, verifier.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
authenticator

Use this term when referring to a device or software that confirms the identity of a user, often in the context of cybersecurity or user access.

  • The IT department issued a new authenticator app for all employees.
  • You need an authenticator to access the secure section of the website.
verifier

This term is best used when referring to someone or something that confirms the truth or accuracy of information, often in contexts like audits, fact-checking, or authentication.

  • The verifier confirmed that the signatures were genuine.
  • As a verifier, your job is to ensure all reported facts are accurate.
validator

Use this word when you need to check the correctness or legitimacy of something, such as data, documents, or a process. It is commonly used in technical and academic contexts.

  • The form includes a validator to ensure all fields are filled correctly.
  • A validator checks the data entered by the user before it's saved in the database.

Examples of usage

  • The art expert acted as the authenticator for the painting, confirming its originality.
  • The notary public served as the authenticator of the legal document.

Translations

Translations of the word "authenticator" in other languages:

🇵🇹 autenticador

🇮🇳 प्रमाणक

🇩🇪 Authentifizierer

🇮🇩 autentikator

🇺🇦 аутентифікатор

🇵🇱 uwierzytelniacz

🇯🇵 認証器 (にんしょうき)

🇫🇷 authentificateur

🇪🇸 autenticador

🇹🇷 doğrulayıcı

🇰🇷 인증기

🇸🇦 المصادق

🇨🇿 autentizátor

🇸🇰 autentifikátor

🇨🇳 认证器 (rènzhèng qì)

🇸🇮 overitelj

🇮🇸 auðkennisvottunartæki

🇰🇿 аутентификатор

🇬🇪 ავთენტიფიკატორი

🇦🇿 avtentifikator

🇲🇽 autenticador

Etymology

The term 'authenticator' originated from the word 'authenticate', which comes from the Medieval Latin 'authenticare', meaning 'to make authentic'. The concept of authentication has been crucial throughout history in verifying identities, documents, and artifacts for security and validation purposes.

See also: authenticity, inauthentically, inauthenticity, unauthentically, unauthenticated.