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codeword

codeword

7.5
A word or phrase that gives a secret signal to a group
  • noun
  • /ˈkoʊdˌwɜrd/
translation icon : palabra clave
  • Codeword: Ivan the Terrible.

Examples

  • The codeword is Yoko Ono, so don't worry.

    One Night in Istanbul (2014)

  • All units stand by for codeword.

    You Only Live Twice (1967)

  • It's increasingly obvious: Anti-racist is a codeword for anti-White.

    Blog text (28)

  • Check out Bob Whittaker's 'Bugs' site for more info on how to get involved in the solution: "ANTI-RACIST" is just a codeword for ANTI-WHITE.

    Blog text (17)

  • The secret club decided that their codeword would be 'moonlight' for future meetings.

  • During the operation, the soldiers used the codeword 'eagle' to communicate without alerting the enemy.

  • To gain access to the exclusive event, you must send the organizers the codeword that was shared with you.

Synonyms

cryptonym
vscodeword
1 9.9

A secret name used to hide a person's identity or a project's purpose

focuses on conveying special group meanings rather than hiding identity
watchword
vscodeword
8.2

A secret word that lets people enter or join a group

conveys hidden meaning among members rather than serving for entry

Surface Forms

codeword singular
codewords plural

Morphology

codeword = code + word (transparent) = code + word

A straightforward compound meaning 'a word used as a code' where both components contribute directly to the sense.

Etymology

Codeword is made of code ('a system of secret signs') and word ('a single word'), so imagine a short secret phrase only a group knows. That's why a codeword can be used as a password or signal to confirm identity or give special access.