access

The word “access” means the right or ability to enter, use, or obtain something. In plain terms, the ability to get into, use, or reach something, or the act of doing so.

“Access” is pronounced AK-sehs (/ˈækˌsɛs/ in IPA).

Here is “access” used in a sentence: “Employees need a keycard to gain access to the building.”

Depending on how it is used, “access” can be a noun and a verb.

The word “access” comes from Latin. From Latin accessus, "an approach," from accedere ("to approach"), built from ad- ("to") plus cedere ("to go, move").

“Access” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.

“Access” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the right or ability to enter, use, or obtain something.

Entry is the physical act of going into a place. Access is broader — the right or ability to enter, use, or obtain something, which may not be physical at all. You can have access to a building, but also to information, funds, or healthcare. Access is about permission and possibility; entry is about going in.

Access can be physical (entering a building or room), digital (logging into an account, network, or file), and legal or social (the right to services, education, or records). In computing, "access" often describes permission levels such as read, write, or admin. In every case it combines the ability and the right to reach something.

Yes. Access is often controlled or limited — by locks, passwords, permissions, memberships, or laws. Restricting access keeps out people who lack the right or need to enter or use something, which is central to security and privacy. Granting access does the opposite, letting someone in or giving them use of a resource.