cipher (B2)
noun
Pronunciation: /ˈsaɪfər/
Definition
A secret or disguised way of writing; a code.
Examples
The message was written in a complex cipher that took hours to decode.
She used a simple substitution cipher, replacing each letter with the next one in the alphabet.
Historians are still trying to break the ancient cipher found on the scroll.
How to Use cipher
- cipher for (prepositional phrase)
- A code used for a specific purpose or type of message. — "They developed a new cipher for transmitting military secrets."
- break a cipher (collocation)
- To decode or decipher a secret message. — "The codebreakers worked tirelessly to break the enemy's cipher."
- write in cipher (collocation)
- To compose a message using a secret code. — "She decided to write her diary entries in cipher to keep them private."
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