password
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password
A secret string of characters (word, phrase, or combination of letters, numbers, and symbols) used to authenticate a user for access to a system, computer, or service. Synonymous with Passwort.
Ich habe mein Kennwort für das Online-Banking vergessen.
I forgot my password for online banking.
password / passphrase
An agreed-upon word or short phrase that serves as a sign of recognition in order to identify oneself to insiders, often in military or conspiratorial contexts.
Der Spion nannte das richtige Kennwort und durfte die Grenze passieren.
The spy gave the correct password and was allowed to cross the border.
'Kennwort' (password) is made up of the verb 'kennen' (to know) and the noun 'das Wort' (the word). So it is literally a 'word for knowing' or a word that you have to know in order to identify yourself.
Nur wer das Kennwort kennt, darf eintreten.
Only someone who knows the password may enter.
The meaning depends strongly on context. In connection with computers, the internet, or accounts, it means 'Passwort' (password). In stories about spies, soldiers, or secret meetings, it means 'Losung' (watchword) or 'Parole' (password).
Bitte geben Sie Ihr Kennwort ein, um sich anzumelden.
Please enter your password to log in.
In a digital context, 'Kennwort' (password) is often used with certain verbs: you have to 'eingeben' (enter), 'ändern' (change), or 'zurücksetzen' (reset) a password. Unfortunately, you can also 'vergessen' (forget) your password.
Aus Sicherheitsgründen sollten Sie Ihr Kennwort regelmäßig ändern.
For security reasons, you should change your password regularly.
The term 'Kennwort' (password) is often used in a more formal or technical setting, for example in user manuals, on official websites, or in IT departments.
Die Software fordert Sie auf, ein neues Kennwort festzulegen.
The software prompts you to set a new password.
slogan / password
Parole and Kennwort can both serve as secret words used for identification. In this sense, Parole is especially associated with the military or intelligence services and often sounds historical, while Kennwort is a more general term for an agreed word used for identification. Use Parole in a military context and Kennwort for general access or a meeting.
Am Eingang des Treffens nannte jeder Gast dem Helfer das vereinbarte Kennwort.
At the entrance to the meeting, every guest gave the agreed password to the helper.
Am militärischen Kontrollpunkt musste jeder Soldat die geheime Parole nennen.
At the military checkpoint, every soldier had to give the secret password.
