verb

encode

in-KOHD

Encode (verb) means to convert information into a particular form or system of symbols, so that it can be stored, sent or read by a machine. Example: “The video is encoded at a lower bitrate for mobile users.”

verb

To convert information into a particular form or system of symbols, so that it can be stored, sent or read by a machine.

"The video is encoded at a lower bitrate for mobile users."

"Passwords should never be merely encoded; they must be hashed."

technical Of a gene or stretch of DNA: to carry the instructions for making a particular protein.

"This gene encodes an enzyme that breaks down lactose."

To contain an idea or value in an indirect form, so that it is built into something without being stated openly.

"The ranking algorithm encodes assumptions about what counts as a good answer."

How to Use Encode

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishTo put information into a code or format.

When to use it

Standard, chiefly technical and scientific.

Memory tip

The opposite is decode, and the noun for the process is encoding.

Trace the full origin ↓

Easily confused with

encode vs encrypt encode vs decode

Common pairings

encode data encode a video encode information gene encodes a protein

Study it as flashcards or scroll it in Flow — saved to your collection.

Test yourself on “encode” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Fill the Gap

Can you complete this real example?

The video is _____ at a lower bitrate for mobile users.

Etymology

Formed from the prefix en- "to put into" and code.

Origin: English

Synonyms

View more →

convert encrypt encipher translate

Antonyms

decode decipher

Related Words

change read code steal solve convert inform transform

Rhymes for encode

ode rode code mode bode node lode abode erode Rhode Goode decode

See all rhymes for encode →

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between encoding and encrypting?

Encoding changes the form of data so a system can handle it, and anyone who knows the scheme can reverse it; it provides no secrecy. Encryption deliberately hides the content and can only be reversed with a key.

What is the difference between encode and encrypt in passwords?

An encoded password, such as one in base64, can be turned back into the original in seconds and is effectively stored in plain text. Passwords should be hashed with a slow one-way function so that even the system holding them cannot recover the original.

Does encode mean the same as compress?

Not quite, though the two overlap. Encoding a video usually involves compression, but encoding on its own simply means putting data into a defined format, which need not make it smaller.

People Also Searched

change read code steal solve convert inform transform