Definition

To solve mathematical problems or perform calculations.

Example

He can cipher complex equations quickly in his head.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you see how she cipher that math problem so quickly?

Yeah, she makes it look so easy!

I wish I could cipher like that without getting confused.

Just practice a bit more, and you'll get the hang of it too!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

A method of writing or a system used to encode messages so that they are not easily understood without a key or code.

Example

The spy used a cipher to send secret messages to his team.

Conversation

Have you ever tried to solve a cipher?

No, I haven't! What is it exactly?

It's basically a code that scrambles messages to keep them secret.

Definition

To write or encode a message in a way that makes it difficult to read without a key or method to decode it.

Example

The spy had to cipher the message before sending it to ensure it remained secret.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Have you ever tried to cipher a message before?

Not really, but it sounds intriguing!

I just learned a method to cipher simple codes.

Root Explanation

Cipher → It originates from the Arabic word 'sifr' (meaning zero or empty), which was later adopted into Medieval Latin as 'cifra', meaning a figure or numeral. The word 'cipher' refers to a method of transforming a message into a coded form, often involving the use of numbers or symbols.

Memory Tip

Think of the Arabic word for zero, 'sifr', which helps you remember that a cipher is a way of encoding messages, often using numbers or symbols.

Visually Confused Words