cipher
Translation
cipher, code, zero, nonentity
Examples
The message was written in a complex cipher.
The message was written in a complex cipher.
In this context, he was a mere cipher.
In this context, he was a mere cipher.
Grammar Patterns
((a cipher)) a secret way of writing The spy used a cipher to send messages.
((a cipher)) a person of no importance The dictator's advisors were mere ciphers.
Similar Words
Synonyms: code, cryptogram; (for a person) nonentity
Etymology
From Arabic 'sifr', meaning 'zero'. The concept of zero was key to early cryptography, leading to the word's modern meaning.
Memory Tips
Think of the verb 'to decipher', which means to solve a code. A 'cipher' is the code itself.