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.
Though still involving a paywall, the involvement of Netflix is a positive, says Christie, because of the impressive viewership numbers that the platform can bring. Sarah Shephard, New York Times, 13 Sep. 2025 The rise of prediction markets (paywall), where contracts are literally tied to cultural or political outcomes, underscores how attention is no longer just sentiment, but a tradable asset in its own right. Anmol Verma, Forbes.com, 11 Sep. 2025 Visible complaints include relentless ads and paywalls. Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 8 Sep. 2025 The New York Times has put the Mini Crossword, one of its popular daily games behind a paywall, and many of its frequent players are decrying the change. Melina Khan, USA Today, 29 Aug. 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 16 Sep. 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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