log in
A2 neutral inseparable intransitive
In simple words
To type your name and password so a computer or website lets you in.
Literal meaning: Originally from computing: to enter (log) your details into (in) a system. The metaphor comes from a ship's log — recording your entry.
Meanings
1 A2 neutral
To gain access to a computer system, website, or app by entering a username and password.
"Please log in to view your order history."
Grammar: inseparable
2 B1 neutral
(Older computing) To formally register one's presence on a mainframe or shared computer system at the start of a session.
"Users had to log in at the terminal before they could run any programs."
Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes
Extremely common in digital and everyday language. Both 'log in' (two words, verb) and 'login' (one word, noun/adjective) are standard. Common in both British and American English. Often used with 'to' when specifying the system: 'log in to your account'.
Commonly used with
account system website portal email platform
Forms
Base
log in
I/you/we/they
3rd person
logs in
he/she/it
Past simple
loged in
yesterday
Past participle
loged in
have + pp
-ing form
loging in
continuous
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