TechnologyAugust 21, 2026

passphrases

PASS-fray-ziz

Definition

A security sequence consisting of a string of words or a phrase, rather than a single word, used to verify an identity for system access.

Etymology

The word is a compound of 'pass' (in the sense of a permit or authentication) and 'phrase,' appearing in computing contexts to describe longer, more secure alternatives to traditional passwords.

In the news

The article contrasts passphrases with old-style passwords to explain how reliance on simpler, shorter codes leaves users vulnerable to AI-powered credential guessing.

Protecting privacy

Read the full article ↗

Dawn

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