cypher

[ˈsʌɪfər]

cypher Definition

• 1. a secret or disguised way of writing; a code
• 2. a person or thing of no importance or value
• 3. a design consisting of interlacing lines, typically circular

Using cypher: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "cypher" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  The message was written in cypher to prevent it from being intercepted.

• Example

  He was just a cypher in the company, with no real power or influence.

• Example

  The stained glass window featured a beautiful cypher design.

cypher Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for cypher

• code
• nonentity
• nobody
• cipher
• secret writing

Antonyms for cypher

• importance
• significance

Idioms Using cypher

• a blank cypher

  a person or thing that has no significance or value

  Example

  He felt like a blank cypher in the company, with no real purpose or role.

• a cypher in the crowd

  a person who is unremarkable and blends in with others

  Example

  She felt like a cypher in the crowd, unnoticed and forgotten.

• a cypher hand

  a worthless or losing hand in card games

  Example

  He was dealt a cypher hand in the poker game, with no chance of winning.

Phrases with cypher

• rotating cypher

  a code that uses a different alphabet for each letter of the message, making it harder to decipher

  Example

  The military used a rotating cypher to send secure messages during the war.

• null and void cypher

  a code that is impossible to decipher without the key, rendering it useless if the key is lost

  Example

  The spy's message was written in a null and void cypher, ensuring that only the intended recipient could read it.

• monogram cypher

  a design consisting of two or more letters, typically the initials of a name, interwoven in a decorative way

  Example

  The wedding invitations featured a beautiful monogram cypher of the couple's initials.

Origins of cypher

from Old French 'cifre', from Arabic 'sifr', meaning 'zero'

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Summary: cypher in Brief

The term 'cypher' [ˈsʌɪfər] refers to a secret or disguised way of writing, often used to convey messages securely. It can also mean a person or thing of no importance or value, as in 'He was just a cypher in the company.' Additionally, 'cypher' can refer to a decorative design consisting of interlacing lines, such as a monogram cypher. Idioms include 'a blank cypher,' denoting a person or thing with no significance, and 'a cypher in the crowd,' meaning someone who blends in with others.