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.
In Michigan ICUs, a checklist drove infection rates down by 66% within three months (paywall). — Timor Brik, Forbes.com, 1 Sep. 2026 Filmmakers can host content on the platform at no cost and determine which films, programs or episodes are available for free or placed behind a paywall, while maintaining control over pricing, monetization and revenue. — Angelique Jackson, Variety, 28 Aug. 2026 After scuttling its costly standalone streaming product CNN+, the network last year introduced a paywall for much of its reporting. — Max Tani, semafor.com, 19 Aug. 2026 Mysa’s pitch — Canadian ownership, no data sales, no subscription paywalls — is unusual today but unlikely to stay that way. — Lauren Jarvis-Gibson july 27, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 27 July 2026 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

Rhymes for paywall

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Browse Nearby Words

pay up
paywall
pay with one's life
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Paywall.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/paywall. Accessed 4 Sep. 2026.

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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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