password
UK: ˈpɑːswɜːd | US: ˈpæswɜːrd
n. a secret word or phrase used to authenticate access to a system, service, or resource
n. (historically) a word or signal given to gain passage, as through a guarded entrance
The term "password" emerged in the early 16th century, combining "pass" (from Old French passer, meaning "to go through") and "word" (from Old English word, meaning "speech" or "command"). Originally, it referred to a spoken phrase or signal to gain entry past guards. With the rise of digital technology, its meaning expanded to denote cryptographic authentication. The logic is straightforward: a "word" that "passes" you through a barrier.
The system requires a strong password with at least eight characters.
Soldiers used a secret password to enter the fortress at night.
Never share your online banking password with anyone.
The default password was easily guessable, posing a security risk.
She forgot her password and had to reset it via email.