Crypto Glossary
A clear, no-jargon reference for the most important terms in cryptocurrency and blockchain. Each definition includes links to our in-depth guides for further reading.
B
Blockchain
A distributed digital ledger that records transactions across a network of computers.
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DeFi
Decentralized Finance — financial services built on blockchains without traditional intermediaries.
Read Full Guide →G
Gas Fees
The cost of executing a transaction or smart contract on a blockchain like Ethereum.
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Halving
A programmed event that cuts the block reward miners receive in half, reducing the rate of new Bitcoin issuance.
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KYC
Know Your Customer — identity verification required by regulated exchanges and financial institutions.
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Lightning Network
A Layer-2 payment protocol that enables fast, cheap Bitcoin transactions off-chain.
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Mining
The process of validating transactions and adding new blocks to a Proof-of-Work blockchain.
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Node
A computer that maintains a copy of the blockchain and validates transactions independently.
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Private Key
A secret cryptographic string that proves ownership of blockchain assets and authorizes transactions.
Read Full Guide →Proof of Stake
A consensus mechanism where validators stake cryptocurrency as collateral to secure the network.
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Seed Phrase
A set of 12 or 24 words that acts as a master backup for a cryptocurrency wallet.
Read Full Guide →Short Squeeze
A rapid price increase caused by forced buying as short sellers close losing positions.
Read Full Guide →Smart Contract
Self-executing code deployed on a blockchain that runs automatically when conditions are met.
Read Full Guide →Stablecoin
A cryptocurrency designed to maintain a stable value, typically pegged to the US dollar.
Read Full Guide →Staking
Locking up cryptocurrency to help secure a Proof-of-Stake network in exchange for rewards.
Read Full Guide →W
Wallet
Software or hardware that stores cryptographic keys and enables sending and receiving cryptocurrency.
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