secure 1 of 2

1
2
as in to ensure
to make sure, certain, or safe a retirement account that will help to secure our future

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

3
as in to fasten
to put securely in place or in a desired position candidates for admission are asked to secure a recent photo to their application forms

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

4

secure

2 of 2

adjective

1
2
3
4

Synonym Chooser

How is the word secure distinct from other similar verbs?

Some common synonyms of secure are assure, ensure, and insure. While all these words mean "to make a thing or person sure," secure implies action taken to guard against attack or loss.

sent reinforcements to secure their position

When can assure be used instead of secure?

The words assure and secure can be used in similar contexts, but assure distinctively implies the removal of doubt and suspense from a person's mind.

I assure you that no harm will be done

How does the word ensure relate to other synonyms for secure?

Ensure, insure, and assure are interchangeable in many contexts where they indicate the making certain or inevitable of an outcome, but ensure may imply a virtual guarantee.

the government has ensured the safety of the refugees

When is it sensible to use insure instead of secure?

While the synonyms insure and secure are close in meaning, insure sometimes stresses the taking of necessary measures beforehand.

careful planning should insure the success of the party

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of secure
Verb
The move was the latest bid by the White House to use threats of higher tariffs on goods imported into the U.S. in hopes of securing new trade agreements with countries around the globe, even historically close trading partners like Canada. Alex Veiga, Los Angeles Times, 11 July 2025 The Prime Day deal on these headphones that secured a spot on Oprah’s Favorite Things list is about to disappear. Isabel Garcia, People.com, 11 July 2025
Adjective
The leather bag fits small essentials and has a zippered closure to keep everything secure. Isabel Garcia, People.com, 11 July 2025 For now, Siskind recommends that government officials steer clear of popular encrypted platforms like Signal, which while secure in terms of content, lack mechanisms for identity verification. Sharon Goldman, Fortune, 10 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for secure
Recent Examples of Synonyms for secure
Verb
  • Snag straw bags that are ideal for a beach day or brunch, straw hats to keep your face protected from the sun, and popular shoe styles like woven flats, simple black flip flops, and kitten heels.
    Rachel Trujillo, People.com, 5 July 2025
  • From quick rinses to gentle drying, here's how to protect your swimwear for seasons to come.
    Gabi De la Rosa, Southern Living, 5 July 2025
Verb
  • Vogue's Favorite Japanese Sunscreens Japan has strict sunscreen regulations to ensure high standards and qualities for safety and effectiveness.
    Iman Balagam, Vogue, 14 July 2025
  • And ensuring the fit is right will also remain paramount.
    Jean E. Palmieri, Footwear News, 14 July 2025
Verb
  • An hour before kick-off for Portugal’s UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 group stage match against Spain and eyes begin to gravitate towards Wankdorf Stadium’s west stand and a large piece of cardboard fastened to the bottom of the upper stand.
    Megan Feringa, New York Times, 4 July 2025
  • Feet are attached to each of the four posts, providing additional stability, and the kit also comes with anchoring hardware, which securely fastens the gazebo to cement.
    Maggie Horton, People.com, 8 May 2025
Verb
  • Two, the Padres can win a wild-card playoff berth without adding a catcher.
    Tom Krasovic, San Diego Union-Tribune, 14 July 2025
  • The Powerball jackpot was last won May 31, when a California player hit the $204.5 million grand prize.
    Don Sweeney July 13, Kansas City Star, 13 July 2025
Adjective
  • And for those stunning backless dresses that demand a bra-free look, nipple covers are your secret weapon for confident coverage.
    Caitlyn Martyn may earn a commission if you buy through our referral links. This content was created by a team that works independently from the Fox newsroom., FOXNews.com, 8 July 2025
  • In fact, of the 98% of HR professionals surveyed by Capterra who plan to use software and algorithms to reduce labor costs, only half are confident that the technology will make unbiased recommendations.
    C200, Forbes.com, 8 July 2025
Adjective
  • While vinegar is safe for most types of glass, there are a few glass surfaces not suited for this natural cleaner.
    Ashlyn Needham, Southern Living, 12 July 2025
  • If the sky becomes threatening and thunder can be heard, find a safe place to shelter.
    NC Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 12 July 2025
Adjective
  • But Amazon representatives insist drone deliveries are not only fast and reliable but safe, too.
    Russ Wiles, AZCentral.com, 10 July 2025
  • The outsoles are made with reliable rubber treads to provide vital traction on slick city streets and beyond, and the sleek leather exteriors will remain in pristine shape even if you get caught in an unexpected rainstorm.
    Merrell Readman, Travel + Leisure, 10 July 2025
Verb
  • Meanwhile, four other women’s champions successfully defended their titles.
    Ryan Gaydos, FOXNews.com, 14 July 2025
  • Weiland and Oswald defended the arrest by saying that assessing flight risk in real time can be difficult.
    Laura Rodríguez Presa, Chicago Tribune, 14 July 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Secure.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/secure. Accessed 19 Jul. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on secure

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!