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Definition of decrypt

decrypt

/diːˈkrɪpt/
de · crypt
Adjective:decryptable
•
Past Simple:decrypted
•
Past Participle:decrypted
•
Present Participle:decrypting
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decrypt Lexical Profile

decrypt Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To convert encrypted or coded data back into its original, readable form using a cryptographic key or algorithm.

Example

"You will need to enter your private security passphrase to decrypt the archived files."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for decrypt
Antonyms
View all antonyms for decrypt

• Rhymes for decrypt

• Nearby Words

decriminalization
decriminalize
decry
decrypt
decryption
dedicate
dedicated

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the 1930s by combining the Latin prefix 'de-' (indicating reversal) with 'crypt', from Ancient Greek 'kryptos' meaning 'hidden' or 'secret', modeled as the direct opposite of 'encrypt'.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Decrypt. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/decrypt
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