Wi-Fi Password: Definition and Usage

Meaning 1：network access code (Wi-Fi password)

Wi-Fi password 🔊

/ˈwaɪ faɪ ˈpæsˌwɜːrd/

The secret word you need to enter to join a wireless internet network.

Wi-Fi password handwritten on sticky note near router

network access code 🔊

➕

/ˈnɛtˌwɜːrk ˈæksɛs koʊd/

A Wi-Fi password is a secret alphanumeric code required to authenticate and connect to a wireless local area network.

📁 Category：Technological Inventions 🔖 Level：Beginner

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

Wi-Fi is a blend of 'wireless fidelity'; password combines 'pass' (to go through) and 'word' (signal).

💡 Mnemonic

Think: 'Why Fi?' The password unlocks the wireless door to the internet.

📖 Example

When I visited my friend's new apartment, the first thing I asked was, "What's the Wi-Fi password?" 🔊 When I visited my friend's new apartment, the first thing I asked was, "What's the Wi-Fi password?"

🔗 Collocations

enter the Wi-Fi password – type the secret code to connect to the network

forgot the Wi-Fi password – cannot recall the network access code

share the Wi-Fi password – tell someone the secret code for internet access

🔄 Synonyms

network key (n.) – a code used to secure a wireless network

wireless password (n.) – the same as Wi-Fi password

access code (n.) – a code to gain entry to a network

🚫 Antonyms

open network (n.) – a wireless network without a password

public hotspot (n.) – a free Wi-Fi access point requiring no password

🌱 Derivatives

password-protected (adj.) – secured by a password

passwordless (adj.) – not requiring a password

📖 Cultural Story

The term Wi-Fi was coined in 1999 by brand consultancy Interbrand as a catchy name for wireless networking, modeled after 'Hi-Fi'. Password has been used since ancient times for secret entry. Together, they symbolize the digital gateway.