Alphanumeric

/ˌælfənjuːˈmɛrɪk/ adjective

Definition

Containing or using a combination of letters (A-Z, a-z) and numbers (0-9) together.

Etymology

From alpha (representing the alphabet) + numeric (from Latin numerus, number). It was coined in the 1960s as computing technology needed a precise term for mixed letter-number data and passwords.

Kelly Says

Alphanumeric became essential for computer security—it's why passwords force you to mix letters and numbers, because a 'P@ssw0rd' is exponentially harder to crack than 'password,' making the combination mathematically more secure.

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