Encrypted: meaning, definitions and examples

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encrypted

 

[ɪnˈkrɪptɪd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

data security

Encrypted refers to protecting data by converting it into a code, making it unreadable to anyone who does not have the encryption key.

Synonyms

coded, scrambled, secured.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
encrypted

Used in the context of data security and privacy, often in relation to digital communication and storage to prevent unauthorized access.

  • The email was encrypted to protect sensitive information.
  • All our files are encrypted to ensure confidentiality.
coded

Typically refers to messages or data that have been converted into a particular code or format, used in programming or secret communication.

  • The message was coded to keep it secret from everyone except the intended recipient.
  • The software developer coded the application to perform specific tasks.
scrambled

Implies a mixing or rearranging of information to make it unreadable or disorganized, often used in casual or technical contexts.

  • The television signal was scrambled, making it impossible to watch the broadcast.
  • Her notes got scrambled, making it hard to study for the exam.
secured

Refers to protecting or safeguarding something, often in a broader or more general context than just data, including physical security.

  • The premises are secured with the latest alarm system.
  • We need to ensure that all confidential documents are secured in the vault.

Examples of usage

  • Sensitive information such as credit card numbers are often encrypted during online transactions.
  • The company uses encrypted communication to ensure the privacy of customer data.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Greek term 'kryptos,' meaning 'hidden,' which shows the idea of keeping something secret.
  • The prefix 'en-' means to put into, making 'encrypted' mean 'put into a hidden form.'
  • The concept has evolved from simple substitution ciphers used in ancient times to complex algorithms used today.

History

  • Julius Caesar used a simple encryption method, now known as the Caesar cipher, to protect his military messages.
  • During World War II, the Germans used the Enigma machine for encryption, which was a significant factor in military communications.
  • Modern encryption techniques began to emerge in the 1970s with the development of public-key cryptography.

Technology

  • Encryption is a critical part of online security, protecting sensitive data like banking and personal information from hackers.
  • Popular platforms like WhatsApp and Signal use end-to-end encryption to ensure that only the sender and receiver can view messages.
  • With the rise of cloud storage, encryption is often used to secure files stored online from unauthorized access.

Pop Culture

  • In movies, hackers are often depicted using programs to quickly 'decrypt' locked data to show their skill.
  • Cryptography often appears in spy films, where characters use codes and ciphers to exchange secret messages.
  • Video games sometimes incorporate puzzles that involve deciphering encrypted messages to progress in the storyline.

Psychology

  • The feeling of security when using encrypted communication can lead to greater trust, as people feel safer sharing information.
  • Studies show that when people believe their messages are encrypted, they tend to communicate more freely and openly.
  • Encryption can also create a sense of secrecy, which has psychological effects on how individuals perceive information exchanges.

Translations

Translations of the word "encrypted" in other languages:

🇵🇹 criptografado

🇮🇳 एन्क्रिप्टेड

🇩🇪 verschlüsselt

🇮🇩 terenkripsi

🇺🇦 зашифрований

🇵🇱 zaszyfrowany

🇯🇵 暗号化された

🇫🇷 crypté

🇪🇸 encriptado

🇹🇷 şifrelenmiş

🇰🇷 암호화된

🇸🇦 مشفّر

🇨🇿 zašifrovaný

🇸🇰 zašifrovaný

🇨🇳 加密的

🇸🇮 šifriran

🇮🇸 dulkóðað

🇰🇿 шифрланған

🇬🇪 დაშიფრული

🇦🇿 şifrələnmiş

🇲🇽 encriptado

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,022, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.