: a book containing an alphabetical list of words or expressions with their code equivalents

Examples of codebook in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Our genes are merely a codebook for making different proteins. Chuck Brooks, Forbes, 22 Oct. 2024 Stan, recognizing the untapped grift potential of the act (and of Pete’s little codebook), arranges for Pete to drink himself to death, then runs away with the act and with a younger performer, Molly (Rooney Mara), who becomes his wife and assistant. Richard Brody, The New Yorker, 17 Dec. 2021

Word History

First Known Use

1866, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of codebook was in 1866

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Cite this Entry

“Codebook.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/codebook. Accessed 27 Mar. 2025.

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