cryptogram

noun

cryp·​to·​gram ˈkrip-tə-ˌgram How to pronounce cryptogram (audio)
1
: a communication in cipher or code
2
: a figure or representation having a hidden significance

Examples of cryptogram in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Of course, most of the action over at Vula centered around the Beware Advantage that Sai located, which led to a cryptogram puzzle involving animals, colors, letters, and the butt doctor’s unscrambling skills. — Dalton Ross, EW.com, 27 Feb. 2025 Back in California last month, Kristie Cowling had spent the day searching in the mountains for the Past and Future Box, which includes private keys to a Bitcoin and whose chapter in the book includes a reference to the novel Ready Player One, a word search and a cryptogram. — Chris Kenning, USA TODAY, 2 Jan. 2025

Word History

Etymology

crypto- + -gram, after cryptograph, cryptography

First Known Use

1827, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of cryptogram was in 1827

Rhymes for cryptogram

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Browse Nearby Words

cryptogenic
cryptogram
Cryptogramma
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Cite this Entry

“Cryptogram.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cryptogram. Accessed 13 Jun. 2025.

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Kids Definition

cryptogram

noun
cryp·​to·​gram ˈkrip-tə-ˌgram How to pronounce cryptogram (audio)
: something written in cipher or code
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