verb
decrypt
dih-KRIHPT
verb
1
To convert an encrypted or coded message back into readable, plain form.
"It took the analysts hours to decrypt the intercepted transmission."
How to Use Decrypt
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo unscramble a coded or encrypted message so it can be read normally.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
decrypt a file
decrypt a message
attempt to decrypt
Word Forms
decrypted past tense, decrypts plural, decrypts singular
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It took the analysts hours to _____ the intercepted transmission.
Etymology
From de- + -crypt, ultimately from Ancient Greek kryptós, meaning "hidden."