🕵️ Hidden message 🔑 Access password

secret code

1 3.5

A set of numbers or letters used to unlock an account

noun
/ˈsiːkrɪt koʊd/

Specialized

: código de acceso

So they, they go after insecure endpoints and if they can't break my super duper secret code, they'll just steal the password.

But this week's secret code is going to be PVA.

Examples

Anyway, it's being reported that Apple is about to launch a new feature to fix this problem by letting people punch in a secret code that unlocks the phone.
Make sure to remember the secret code you created, as it is essential for logging into the system.
But this week's secret code is going to be PVA.

You Should Know Podcast
There's a secret code to get in that room.

The Santa Clause 3: The Escape Clause (2006)
To access the secure area, you need to enter the secret code provided by your supervisor.
The app requires a secret code to confirm your identity before granting access to your account.

Synonyms

code

vssecret code

499 4.3

A way of using signs, letters, or numbers to hide a message

is narrower, meaning a sequence used specifically to prove identity and gain access

vssecret code

71 3.2

A secret number you enter to access bank accounts or cards

is a broader numeric or alphanumeric code used for identity proof

access code

vssecret code

Specialized

44 3.1

A set of numbers or letters you enter to open a locked device such as a phone

is specifically framed as a sequence proving identity to gain access

passcode

vssecret code

16 3.1

A secret set of numbers or letters used to unlock devices and accounts

is defined as a numeric or alphanumeric sequence for proving identity

passphrase

vssecret code

Specialized

4 5.6

A group of words used like a password to unlock files or accounts

is based on short numbers or letters, not on multiple words

passkey

vssecret code

Specialized

2 4.6

A digital code on a device that lets you sign into an account

is defined as a direct numeric or alphanumeric sequence rather than a credential

How Secure

password

281 2.5

secret code

Specialized

1 3.5

71 3.2

Surface Forms

secret code singular

secret codes plural

Morphology

secret + code

The meaning is directly and transparently built from 'secret' (hidden/kept private) combined with 'code' (a system of symbols or an access/password): a code that is secret for access. This compositional pattern is common and cross-linguistically familiar, so a B1 learner who knows both words would readily infer the MWE's meaning.

Etymology

Secret code used for things like PINs comes from the image of a locked box that opens only when you enter the right numbers. Here secret means only you know it and code means the number set, so it now means 'the numbers you use to open a device or account'.