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encryption

en-KRIP-shun /ɪnˈkrɪp.ʃən/

nounC1GREGMATTOEFL

technicalprofessional

The process of converting information or data into a scrambled code to prevent unauthorized access.

Encryption is a security measure. It ensures that even if data is intercepted or stolen during transmission or storage, it cannot be read without a specific decryption key.

The story behind the word. The root of encryption is the Greek word kryptos, meaning 'hidden' or 'secret'. This is the same root that gives us 'crypt' (a hidden underground chamber). In the mid-20th century, with the rise of digital computing and military communications, the prefix en- was added to describe the active process of hiding data inside complex mathematical codes.

Word relationships

enciphering: Enciphering is a highly technical synonym for converting plaintext to ciphertext, but encryption is the standard term used in modern computing.
cryptography: Cryptography is the entire field of study and practice of secure communication, whereas encryption is the specific process of encoding the data.

decryption: The process of converting encrypted, unreadable data back into its original, readable format.

Commonly confused with

hashing: Encryption is a two-way process (data can be decrypted back to its original form with a key), whereas hashing is a one-way process used to verify data integrity without allowing the original data to be recovered.

Word family

encrypt (verb): To convert data into code.
decrypt (verb): To decode encrypted data.

Collocations

end-to-end encryption
data encryption
encryption key
strong encryption

Example sentences

"End-to-end encryption ensures that only the sender and the recipient can read the messages." Discussing cloud security standards.
"The database uses advanced encryption to protect credit card numbers from hackers." Protecting sensitive personal data.

Memory hook

Think of a 'crypt'. A crypt is a hidden, underground chamber. Encryption hides your data in a digital crypt where nobody can see it. Encrypt to keep secrets in a digital crypt.

When not to use

Do not use encryption to describe simple password protection where the underlying file remains easily readable by basic software (use password protection instead).

Fun facts

During World War II, the German military used the Enigma machine for encryption. Breaking this encryption at Bletchley Park, led by Alan Turing, is credited with shortening the war by several years.

Related words

storage, repository, retrieve

Explore more words

confidentiality, data protection, Code, cybersecurity, authentication, ransomware