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DictionaryincognitoPrivate browsing
noun

incognito

A browser mode that does not retain local browsing history after the session ends.

I use incognito when I browse on a shared computer.

Etymology
incognitoItalianunknown; unrecognized

The Italian word describes an identity kept unrecognized. The browser label borrows that privacy image for a mode that limits the history retained locally after use.

More examples

  • Closing every incognito window ends the private browsing session.
  • Your internet provider can still see your activity in incognito.
  • Files you download in incognito remain on your computer.

Forms

incognito

Similar words

private browsing
A general term for browser modes that avoid retaining local history.