Word Study
cryptanalysis
CIDE DICTIONARY
cryptanalysis, n.
- the science which studies methods to discovering the secret meaning of encrypted messages for which one does not possess the secret decoding information (called the key). [PJC]
- the methods and procedures used to discover the secret meaning hidden in encrypted messages. [PJC]
OXFORD DICTIONARY
cryptanalysis, n. the art or process of deciphering cryptograms by analysis.
Derivative
cryptanalyst n. cryptanalytic adj. cryptanalytical adj.
Etymology
CRYPTO- + ANALYSIS
For further exploring for "cryptanalysis" in Webster Dictionary Online