paywall

noun

pay·​wall ˈpā-ˌwȯl How to pronounce paywall (audio)
: a system that prevents Internet users from accessing certain Web content without a paid subscription

Examples of paywall 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.
Members get all of our content (including the magazine), no paywalls or content meters, an advertising-minimal experience, and unique access to our writers and editors (through conference calls, social media groups, and more). Algis Valiunas, National Review, 15 May 2025 In today’s landscape, walls built in the industry go beyond paywalls, creating divisions between people of different backgrounds and opportunities. Nia Bowers, USA Today, 15 May 2025 The new product will dovetails with a recent paywall put in place at CNN.com that gives those who subscribe to it access to ad-free news and certain extra pieces of content. Brian Steinberg, Variety, 13 May 2025 The matchup was originally behind a paywall on the streaming network Peacock, which would require a subscription to watch. Shaun Goodwin, Idaho Statesman, 12 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for paywall

Word History

Etymology

pay entry 1 + firewall

First Known Use

2004, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of paywall was in 2004

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Paywall.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/paywall. Accessed 29 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

paywall

noun
pay·​wall ˈpā-ˌwȯl How to pronounce paywall (audio)
: a system that prevents Internet users from accessing certain Web content without a paid subscription
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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