ciphering

[/ˈsaɪ.fər.ɪŋ/]
noun/verb (gerund)
cifração, codificação, cálculo aritmético
1. The process of converting information into a code or cipher to prevent unauthorized access
Ciphering is essential for protecting sensitive data in digital communications.
A cifração é essencial para proteger dados sensíveis em comunicações digitais.
2. The act of performing arithmetic calculations or mathematical operations
The student was practicing ciphering with basic arithmetic problems.
O aluno estava praticando cálculos com problemas de aritmética básica.
3. The use of a zero or a cipher; calculation using numerals
In the 16th century, ciphering became more common in European mathematics.
No século XVI, o uso de cálculos numéricos tornou-se mais comum na matemática europeia.
4. Creating or using a secret code or system of symbols
The spies were ciphering their messages before sending them.
Os espiões estavam codificando suas mensagens antes de enviá-las.
In Brazilian educational contexts, 'ciphering' historically referred to arithmetic instruction, particularly in colonial and early modern periods. Today, the term is primarily used in cryptography and cybersecurity discussions. In Portugal, the concept is more often expressed as 'cifração' or simply 'encriptação' in modern usage. The word reflects the historical importance of code-making and mathematical calculation in both cultures.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
encodingencryptioncodingcalculationcomputing
Antonyms / Antônimos
decipheringdecryptiondecoding

Regional Variations

General Brazilian Portuguese
cifração
Most common term for encryption/encoding processes
General Brazilian Portuguese
codificação
Alternative term emphasizing the coding aspect
Portugal
cifra
Portuguese often uses the noun form; ciphering may be expressed as 'processo de cifração'
Technical/IT contexts
encriptação or encriptação de dados
Used specifically in cybersecurity and IT fields in Brazil

Related Words

cipherencryptcodecryptographyalgorithmarithmetic

Related Idioms & Phrases

break a cipher
crack the code
decipher a message
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