# Hashing

*noun*

say it: **“HASH-ing”** **/ˈhæʃɪŋ/**

Turning data into a fixed-size fingerprint that can't be turned back, used to store passwords safely.

## What is **Hashing**?

**Hashing** — Turning data into a fixed-size fingerprint that can't be turned back into the original. The same input always gives the same hash, so a site stores only the hash of each password and checks a login by hashing what was typed.

## In a sentence

- “Thanks to **hashing**, our database holds password fingerprints, never the passwords.”

Level: Journeyman · [More Web Development terms at this level](https://www.ask-codey.com/glossary?category=web-development&level=3)

Updated: October 28, 2026

Source: https://www.ask-codey.com/glossary/hashing