How to say "password" in Japanese

Choosing the right word

パスワードCommon
nounThe word to use for the password you enter to log in to a computer, account, or online service. When English 'password' refers to this digital access sense, this is the word you want.
人ひとのパスワードを乱用らんようする「なりすまし」行為こういが問題もんだいになっている。↗
Now that people can steal passwords, illegal impersonation is becoming a serious problem.
暗号あんごうCommon
nounChiefly a code or cipher — a system for disguising messages. Its connection to 'password' is via the idea of a secret code; for the password you type at a login, use パスワード instead.
スパイは情報じょうほうを暗号あんごうで送おくった。↗
The spy sent information by code.
合言葉あいことばCommon
nounA watchword: a word or phrase spoken aloud to prove you are on the same side, as between sentries; also used figuratively for a slogan or shared rallying phrase.
その合い言葉あいことばは解ときやすかった。↗
We easily figured out the password.

Use 「パスワード」 for the password you type to log in; 暗号 chiefly means a code or cipher; 合言葉 is a spoken watchword exchanged to identify friend from foe.

Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only

Japanese equivalents

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