cryptograph

noun

cryp·​to·​graph ˈkrip-tə-ˌgraf How to pronounce cryptograph (audio)

Word History

Etymology

crypto- + -graph, after cryptography

Note: Popularized in Edgar Allan Poe's short story "The Gold Bug" (1843), though use of the word preceded Poe's story.

First Known Use

1839, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of cryptograph was in 1839

Dictionary Entries Near cryptograph

Cite this Entry

“Cryptograph.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cryptograph. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

cryptograph

noun
cryp·​to·​graph ˈkrip-tə-ˌgraf How to pronounce cryptograph (audio)
cryptographic
ˌkrip-tə-ˈgraf-ik
adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on cryptograph

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!