Decrypt
/diːˈkrɪpt/noun
To convert encoded or encrypted information back into readable form.
Did you know?Decrypt is built from Latin de- meaning “undo” and crypta, “vault” or “hidden chamber,” from Greek krypto, “I hide,” the same root behind crypt, cryptic, and even apocalypse’s “unveiling” energy.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*ḱrewbʰ-
“to hide, cover”
Ancient Greek
Greek
kryptō
“I hide, conceal”
Late Latin
Latin
crypta
“a vault, hidden chamber”
Middle English
English
de- + crypt
“to uncover or reveal from concealment”
Modern English
English
decrypt
“to convert coded text into readable form”
Explore more surprising origins