logon
UK[ˈlɒɡɒn]US[ˈlɔːɡɑːn]
n
An act of logging in to a computer system, network, or application.
n
The username or credentials used to gain access to a computer system.
Morpheme Breakdown
log
on
log
record
on
state/action
Etymology
The word 'logon' is a modern English compound, formed in the late 20th century within the context of computing. It fuses the noun 'log', referring to a systematic record of events (as in a ship's logbook), with the adverb 'on', denoting a state of activation or connection. The term's logic is transparent: to "log on" is to initiate a session that will be recorded in the system's log. Unlike ancient borrowings, its etymology is a straightforward combination of two common English words to describe a new technological action, representing a creative and logical extension of existing vocabulary into the digital domain.
Analysis
Structure: log (record) + on (state/action)
- log: Origin: English (from 'logbook', itself of uncertain, possibly Norse, origin). Functional Role: The core element meaning a record or account.
- on: Origin: English (adverb/preposition). Functional Role: A particle indicating a state of being active, connected, or in operation.
Examples
You need to enter your password to complete the logon process.
The system administrator monitors all failed logon attempts.
Please use your employee ID as your network logon.