What does passport mean?
A passport is an official government-issued travel document that identifies its holder and normally shows the holder’s nationality. Passports are commonly required for international travel, and many countries require them to be valid for a stated period beyond the dates of the journey. The word can also be used figuratively: a qualification, experience, or personal quality may be described as a “passport” because it provides access to a place, profession, or opportunity. In this extended sense, the expression often suggests that the thing described is a practical route toward participation or advancement. Although passports are associated with international travel, their original sense was broader: the word derives from French terminology meaning permission to pass. Modern use remains firmly focused on identity, nationality, and authorization for border crossing, while the figurative sense is especially common in educational and professional contexts.
An official document issued by a government that identifies its holder and authorizes international travel.
"You will need a valid passport to board the international flight."
The countable noun usually takes an article or a possessive modifier: “a passport,” “my passport,” or “her passport.” Common related terms include “passport application,” “passport photo,” and “passport control.”
Figuratively, a qualification or means of gaining access to an opportunity, field, or destination.
"A first-class degree can be a passport to employment."
This use is metaphorical and commonly appears in journalism, education, and professional contexts.
The plural is formed by adding -s; the final -t is silent before the plural suffix.
"The couple carried their passports and travel documents."
The word passport literally meant “permission to pass” before it became the familiar travel document.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does passport come from?
The word entered English from French passeport, from passer, “to pass.” Its original sense referred to permission or authorization to pass, especially for travel. The modern document developed from this earlier meaning and is now associated with a government-issued proof of identity and nationality. English pass, passage, passenger, and bypass share the same Latin root, from passare, “to step or go through.”
Related word forms
How passport is actually used
The term is primarily formal and administrative. The figurative sense is common in journalism and motivational language, where it describes a qualification, advantage, or route that enables access to a new opportunity.
Easily confused with passport
A passport proves identity and nationality, while a visa is an additional authorization allowing a traveler to enter or remain in a particular country.