A scientist or expert who studies codes, ciphers, and secret writing systems, or works to break encrypted messages.
From Greek 'kryptos' (hidden) + 'logos' (study) + '-ist' (one who practices). The term emerged in the early 20th century as cryptography became a formal discipline during wartime intelligence efforts.
During WWII, cryptologists at Bletchley Park broke the German Enigma code, potentially shortening the war by years—their work was so secret that many cryptologists weren't publicly recognized until decades later.
'-ologist' suffix historically indexed male experts; cryptology departments and military intelligence restricted women from credentialed 'cryptologist' titles despite equivalent work.
Use 'cryptologist' for any person studying cryptology; ensure institutional histories credit women equally in publications and acknowledgments.
["cryptography specialist","cipher science expert"]
Women cryptologists at NSA, GCHQ, and academic institutions developed core algorithms and theory; many remained classified or uncredited until recent historical recovery efforts.
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