login: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Very HighNeutral to Informal in computing contexts
Quick answer
What does “login” mean?
The process or credentials used to gain access to a computer system, website, or app.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The process or credentials used to gain access to a computer system, website, or app.
The act of signing into a system; also, the username/password combination itself or the point in a session where access begins.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Spelling and usage are largely identical. 'Log on' is a slightly more traditional British alternative to 'log in', but 'log in' is now predominant in both varieties.
Connotations
No significant difference in connotations.
Frequency
Equally frequent in both dialects due to global tech terminology.
Grammar
How to Use “login” in a Sentence
Enter your login.Use your login to access the system.The login failed.Go to the login screen.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “login” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- Please log on to the server.
- I can't log in; the page isn't loading.
American English
- Log in with your email.
- You need to log into your account first.
adverb
British English
- This form is used login. (Not standard; 'to log in' is required)
- N/A
American English
- N/A
- N/A
adjective
British English
- Find the login details in your welcome email.
- The login procedure has been simplified.
American English
- Click the login button at the top right.
- I'm locked out due to failed login attempts.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Employees must use a secure login to access the company network.
Academic
Students need their institutional login to download journal articles.
Everyday
I forgot my Netflix login and had to reset my password.
Technical
The application implements OAuth 2.0 for third-party login.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “login”
- Using 'login' as a verb (e.g., 'Please login here' – should be 'log in').
- Confusing 'login' (noun) with 'log in' (verb).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
'Login' is a noun or adjective (the login page). 'Log in' (two words) is the verb form (you log in to a system).
They are largely synonymous in digital contexts. 'Sign in' might imply a slightly more formal registration process, but in everyday use they are interchangeable.
In strict formal writing, no—use 'log in'. However, 'login' as a verb is common in informal tech communication and user interfaces (e.g., 'Login failed').
A common trap: In Russian, 'логин' usually means only the username, not the process. The process is 'вход в систему' or 'авторизация'.
The process or credentials used to gain access to a computer system, website, or app.
Login is usually neutral to informal in computing contexts in register.
Login: in British English it is pronounced /ˈlɒɡ.ɪn/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈlɔːɡ.ɪn/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Single sign-on (SSO)”
- “Login with Facebook/Google”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a LOG being a record of your entry. Your LOG-IN is the act of recording your entry into a system.
Conceptual Metaphor
ACCESS IS ENTERING A SPACE (You 'log in' to 'enter' a digital realm).
Practice
Quiz
Which of the following is the correct use of 'login' as a noun?