authentication

[ aw-then-ti-key-shuhn ]

noun

1. the act or process of establishing something as genuine or authoritative:

   The requisite authentication was performed on each piece before it was donated to the museum.

2. Also called electronic authentication. Digital Technology. the act or process of establishing identity and verifying permission to access an electronic device or computer network (often used attributively): biometric authentication;

   password authentication;

   biometric authentication;

   authentication credentials.

Other Words From

• re·au·then·ti·ca·tion noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of authentication¹

First recorded in 1600–20; authenticat(e) ( def ) + -ion ( def )

Example Sentences

They use facial recognition and visual media authentication to determine the validity of the enormous volume of open source content that has been collected and preserved according to internationally-recognized standards.

From Salon

This functionality provides an additional layer of security beyond traditional password-based authentication.

From Salon

“The District Attorney’s blanket reliance on Hart’s authentication, despite clear discrepancies, raises significant doubts about the validity of the evidence and the thoroughness of its verification,” the lawsuit said.

From Los Angeles Times

Beyond that, experts say it’s extremely important to sign up for two-factor authentication.

From Los Angeles Times

“A New Hope,” “ The Empire Strikes Back” and “Jedi” collectively became a kind of morality North Star for Gen X, augmented by Joseph Campbell’s authentication of the films as spiritual parables.

From Salon

Related Words

• certification
• verification