cipher
20 synonyms and 0 antonyms for cipher, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A system for turning readable text into a secret, scrambled form; more loosely, a secret code.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use cipher
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Old French cyfre, ultimately from Arabic sifr meaning "zero" or "empty" — the same root that gives us the word "zero" itself.
Full origin of cipher →Frequently asked questions
What does “cipher” mean?
The word “cipher” means a system for turning readable text into a secret, scrambled form; more loosely, a secret code. In plain terms, a secret code for hiding a message, or someone/something with no real substance.
How do you pronounce “cipher”?
“Cipher” is pronounced SEYE-fuh (/ˈsaɪfɚ/ in IPA).
How do you use “cipher” in a sentence?
Here is “cipher” used in a sentence: “The spy sent messages written in a simple cipher.”
What part of speech is “cipher”?
Depending on how it is used, “cipher” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “cipher” come from?
The word “cipher” comes from Old French. From Old French cyfre, ultimately from Arabic sifr meaning "zero" or "empty" — the same root that gives us the word "zero" itself.
Is “cipher” a common word?
“Cipher” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “cipher” have?
“Cipher” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a system for turning readable text into a secret, scrambled form; more loosely, a secret code.