tessera
[ˈtɛs.sɛ.ra]
The Latin word for password is tessera.
In a computing context, tessera refers to a string of characters known only to a user.
Meaning: computing: string of characters known only to a user (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
Literally, tessera means a small tablet, token or piece of wood.
How does it change in a sentence?
The form of the word changes depending on its role in a sentence. tessera is the base form, but it changes to tesseram when it is the direct object of a verb, such as 'to choose' or 'to know'. The plural possessive form, meaning 'of the passwords', is tesserarum.
Did you know?
- The word tessera can also be found in the word 'tesserae', which refers to the small pieces used to create a mosaic.
- In many ancient contexts, a tessera functioned like a physical 'token' that two people would split to verify their identity when meeting.
- The word tessera actually shares its roots with the Greek word for the number 'four'.
Examples in context
- Elige tesseram bonam!Choose a good password!Tatoeba #10967109 by carlosalberto, translation #1198444 by Eldad
- Tesseram eius nescio.I don't know her password.Tatoeba #13829328 by rul, translation #13827640 by rul
- Tessera est "tessera".The password is "password."Tatoeba #13835497 by rul, translation #13671888 by rul
- Quae est clavis?What is the password?
- Necesse est tibi dare sermōnem tutumYou need to give the secure word.
- Dic mihi verbum occultumTell me the secret word.
- Volo videre symbolum absconditumI want to see the hidden symbol.
- 1 more sentence on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Quintus and Aurelia are trying to access a digital document.
- QuintusTesseram inscribo.I am entering the password.
- AureliaEstne tessera recta?Is the password correct?
- QuintusNon, tessera erronea est.No, the password is wrong.
- AureliaTesseram novam quaere.Look for a new password.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry tessera, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries tessera, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
