Nonce: meaning, definitions and examples

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nonce

 

[ nษ‘ns ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

cryptography

A nonce is an arbitrary number used only once in a cryptographic communication protocol to ensure that old communications cannot be reused in replay attacks. It is typically a random or pseudo-random number that is generated for a specific use within a single session or transaction.

Synonyms

random number, session token, unique identifier.

Examples of usage

  • The system generated a unique nonce for each transaction.
  • To prevent replay attacks, each request must include a fresh nonce.
  • The nonce was combined with a timestamp to enhance security.
Context #2 | Noun

informal

In informal usage, 'nonce' can refer to a short-lived or temporary event, especially in phrases like 'for the nonce', meaning for the time being or temporarily.

Synonyms

moment, occasion, time.

Examples of usage

  • We'll use this solution for the nonce.
  • She agreed to stay for the nonce.
  • The arrangement is only for the nonce.

Translations

Translations of the word "nonce" in other languages:

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡น nonce

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ณ เคจเฅ‰เคจเคธ

๐Ÿ‡ฉ๐Ÿ‡ช Nonce

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ฉ nonce

๐Ÿ‡บ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ะฝะฐะฝั

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡ฑ nonce

๐Ÿ‡ฏ๐Ÿ‡ต ใƒŽใƒณใ‚น

๐Ÿ‡ซ๐Ÿ‡ท nonce

๐Ÿ‡ช๐Ÿ‡ธ nonce

๐Ÿ‡น๐Ÿ‡ท nonce

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ท ๋…ผ์Šค

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ู†ูˆู†ุณ

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ฟ nonce

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฐ nonce

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ณ ้šๆœบๆ•ฐ

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฎ nonce

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ธ nonce

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ฟ nonce

๐Ÿ‡ฌ๐Ÿ‡ช แƒœแƒแƒœแƒกแƒ˜

๐Ÿ‡ฆ๐Ÿ‡ฟ nonce

๐Ÿ‡ฒ๐Ÿ‡ฝ nonce

Etymology

The term 'nonce' has its roots in Middle English as derived from the phrase 'for the nonce', which means 'for the once' or 'for the one occasion'. This usage dates back to the 14th century and was primarily used to refer to a temporary purpose or a specific occasion. In the context of cryptography, the adaptation of the term emerged in the 20th century, relating to the need for unique values in secure communication protocols. The modern cryptographic meaning emphasizes the importance of each nonce being used only once, which plays a crucial role in maintaining security and preventing replay attacks. Over time, the term has found its way into various technical discussions, especially those involving security measures in computer systems.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #29,556, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.