Glossary

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Account Cryptocurrency payments accounts exist solely as digital records in an online database describing specific transactions, rather than being physical money transported and exchanged in the real world Accounting Token Accounting tokens are tokenized credit or debit records (IOU/UOM), just like any other accounting system that uses accounting software. Address Address refers to a unique virtual address that is assigned to a wallet to receive and send digital currencies. Address Delegation Address delegation lets blockchain users authorize another address to act for them, boosting flexibility, security, and decentralized system participation. Aeternity Blockchain Aeternity is a blockchain-based distributed computing and digital-asset platform. The AE coin is a unit of account to pay for platform operations. Airdrop An airdrop gives users free crypto, rewarding early supporters or promoting new projects — no purchase needed, but always beware of scams. Algorithm An algorithm in crypto is a set of rules that automate tasks like transaction validation, smart contracts, and blockchain security. Algorithmic Stablecoin Algorithmic stablecoins use smart contracts and supply adjustments to stay pegged without asset backing, but they carry significant risks if trust breaks. All-Time-High (ATH) All-Time-High (ATH) represents the highest price ever reached by a cryptocurrency, often used as a key benchmark in market performance. All-Time-Low (ATL) All-Time-Low (ATL) refers to the lowest price ever recorded for a cryptocurrency, indicating the most significant decline in its value. Altcoin Altcoins are cryptocurrencies other than Bitcoin, offering various features and technologies. Popular examples include Ethereum, Ripple, and Litecoin. Application Programming Interface (API) An API (Application Programming Interface) allows software to interact and share data, playing a crucial role in blockchain and cryptocurrency platforms. Application-Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC) An ASIC (Application-Specific Integrated Circuit) is a custom chip used for efficient crypto mining, particularly for Bitcoin, offering superior performance. Arbitrage Arbitrage in crypto involves buying low on one exchange and selling high on another, capitalizing on price differences to make a profit. ASIC Resistant ASIC resistant refers to cryptocurrency algorithms that prevent ASIC mining dominance, promoting decentralization and fairness in the mining process. Ask Me Anything (AMA) An AMA is an interactive session where individuals, especially in crypto, answer questions directly from their audience to foster engagement and transparency. Atomic Swap Atomic swaps enable direct, trustless cryptocurrency exchanges between different blockchains without intermediaries, ensuring security and decentralization. Automatic Replay Protection Automatic replay protection prevents transactions from being duplicated across blockchains during forks, ensuring security and preventing accidental transfers.
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Bag Holder A common definition of a bag holder is an investor who never sells any of their holdings, regardless of the value of those holdings. Batch Auction Batch auctions group bids and execute them at once, ensuring fair price discovery and reducing market manipulation in volatile environments. Bear Market A bear market is a downward state of a market in which more than a 20% decline is witnessed. Bear Trap Talking about the bear trap, this technical pattern shows an upward trend incorrectly in the market’s downward trend. Bearish A "bearish" market reflects a decline in asset prices, with expectations of further drops. Learn how bearish trends affect crypto and traditional markets. Bid Price A bid price is the value buyers offer for an asset, such as a commodity, security, or cryptocurrency. Biometric Authentication Biometric authentication secures blockchain access by verifying users through fingerprints, facial recognition, or other unique biological traits. Bitcoin ATM (BTM) As taken from the term ATM – the automatic teller machine, Bitcoin ATMs operate using the same concepts as any other fiat automated teller machine Bitcoin Dominance (BTCD) By definition, the BTCD is defined as the ratio between the market capitalization of Bitcoin and the rest of the cryptocurrency markets. Bitcoin ETF A Bitcoin ETF lets investors track Bitcoin’s price through traditional stock exchanges without owning cryptocurrency directly. Bitcoin Evangelist Bitcoin evangelists promote and educate about Bitcoin's benefits and potential, helping drive adoption and awareness within the crypto space. Bitcoin Halving Bitcoin halving cuts miners’ rewards in half every four years, slowing Bitcoin’s supply growth and often influencing price movements. Bitcoin Improvement Proposal (BIP) Bitcoin Improvement Proposals (BIPs) are formal suggestions to enhance Bitcoin’s protocol, ensuring careful review and consensus before implementation. Bitcoin Pizza Bitcoin Pizza marks the first real-world Bitcoin purchase, when 10,000 BTC bought two pizzas in 2010, highlighting crypto’s humble beginnings. Block A block is a collection of transactions added to the blockchain, linking securely to previous blocks and maintaining the integrity of the network. Block Confirmation Block confirmation refers to the process of verifying and securing transactions in a blockchain, ensuring their validity and immutability as more blocks are added. Block Explorer A block explorer is a tool that lets users view blockchain transactions, blocks, and addresses, providing transparency and real-time insights into blockchain data. Block Reward Block rewards incentivize miners by granting new coins and transaction fees for adding blocks to a blockchain, keeping networks secure and operational. Blockchain Blockchain is a decentralized, secure ledger technology that records transactions transparently and immutably, offering trust in digital data management. Blockchain 3.0 Blockchain 3.0 is the next blockchain development stage after Blockchain 2.0. It aims to resolve existing issues in the blockchain industry to facilitate mainstream adoption. Blockchain Oracle Blockchain oracles provide external data to smart contracts, enabling decentralized applications to access real-world information and trigger automated actions. Blockchain Transmission Protocol (BTP) Blockchain Transmission Protocol (BTP) - a technology that enables compatibility between diverse blockchains by allowing data exchange and value transfer. Bonding Bonding in blockchain refers to locking tokens as collateral to secure networks, validate transactions, and participate in governance, often earning rewards. BRC-20 BRC-20 is a Bitcoin token standard for creating fungible tokens, enabling decentralized apps and smart contracts on Bitcoin’s proof-of-work network. Breakout A breakout occurs when an asset's price moves beyond resistance or support levels, signaling potential market shifts and offering trading opportunities. Bridge A blockchain bridge connects blockchains, enabling asset and data transfer, boosting interoperability and liquidity across networks. BTFD BTFD, or "Buy The F***ing Dip," is a strategy where traders buy assets during price drops, anticipating future gains, but it carries risks. Bull Market A bull market is a period of rising asset prices, driven by optimism and investor confidence. It presents profit opportunities but also carries risks of overvaluation. Bull Trap A bull trap is a false signal of a price rise, tricking investors into buying before the price drops again. It leads to losses for those caught in the trap. Bullish Bullish means expecting prices to rise and reflects optimism in crypto or market trends. Burn A burn in cryptocurrency refers to permanently removing tokens from circulation to reduce supply and potentially increase the value of remaining tokens. Byzantine Fault Tolerance (BFT) Byzantine Fault Tolerance (BFT) is a trait of decentralized, permissionless systems which are capable of successfully identifying and rejecting dishonest information. Byzantine Generals Problem The Byzantine Generals Problem highlights the challenges of reaching consensus in distributed systems, particularly when some participants act maliciously.
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C++ C++ is a multi-purpose programming language widely in use for more than 3 decades now. Calldata Calldata is a read-only memory area in Ethereum used to pass input data to smart contracts efficiently and securely. Candidate Block A candidate block is a miner's proposed block awaiting validation before it's added to the blockchain through consensus. Candlesticks Candlesticks chart is a graphical representation of data that provides a clear understanding to predict the future movement of prices on the market. Central Bank A central bank is a national financial institution that controls the minting of its respected currency and supervises all the banks operating in the country. Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs) are the currencies that a central bank issues giving them the status of legal tender. Centralized Exchange (CEX) A centralized exchange (CEX) is a crypto trading platform that is owned and operated by a third party. Cipher A cipher is a cryptographic algorithm used to encrypt and decrypt blockchain data, ensuring secure, private, and tamper-proof transactions. Ciphertext Ciphertext is encrypted data that hides sensitive information in blockchain, protecting privacy and ensuring secure transactions. Circulating Supply Circulating supply is the amount of cryptocurrency in active circulation, crucial for market cap and price analysis. Close Price Close price is the last recorded trade value of a cryptocurrency during a specific time period, key for analysis and market tracking. Coin A coin in crypto refers to a digital asset with its own blockchain, often used for transactions, value storage, or powering blockchain ecosystems. Cold Wallet A cold wallet stores cryptocurrencies offline, enhancing security by protecting assets from online threats, making it ideal for long-term storage. Collateral Collateral is an asset pledged to secure a loan or debt in cryptocurrency, providing security for lenders and reducing risk in DeFi platforms. Collateralisation Collateralisation in DeFi secures loans with digital assets, reducing lender risk and ensuring repayment if the borrower defaults. Collection Value Collection value is the total worth of a digital asset collection, influenced by factors like rarity, demand, and historical significance. Composability Composability lets blockchain apps interact and build on each other, enabling faster, modular development in DeFi and beyond. Confirmation Bias Confirmation bias in crypto leads traders to favor info that supports their views, risking emotional decisions and market misjudgments. Confirmation Time Confirmation time is how long a blockchain takes to validate a transaction, affecting speed, reliability, and user experience. Consensus Consensus ensures all blockchain nodes agree on valid transactions, making trust and decentralization possible without a central authority. Consensus Mechanism A consensus mechanism lets blockchain nodes agree on valid transactions, securing the network without central authority. Consortium Blockchain A consortium blockchain is a shared, permissioned ledger controlled by select entities for secure and collaborative operations. Cross-Chain Cross-chain enables blockchains to share data and assets, boosting interoperability and connecting isolated crypto networks. Crypto Asset Crypto assets are digital tokens on a blockchain, including cryptocurrencies, NFTs, and utility tokens, used for payments, access, or ownership. Crypto Debit Card Crypto debit cards let users spend cryptocurrency like cash, converting crypto to fiat at purchase points via Visa or Mastercard networks. Cryptocurrency Cryptocurrency is digital money that runs on blockchain tech, enabling secure, decentralized, peer-to-peer transactions without banks. Cryptocurrency Exchange Cryptocurrency exchanges enable users to buy, sell, and trade digital currencies, offering centralized and decentralized trading options. Cryptocurrency Wallet A cryptocurrency wallet is a tool for securely storing, sending, and receiving digital currencies, with both hot and cold storage options available. Cryptographic Hash Function A cryptographic hash function generates a unique hash value from input data, ensuring security and data integrity in blockchain and cryptography. Cryptographic Key Cryptographic keys enable secure encryption and decryption in digital communication and blockchain, ensuring privacy and integrity of transactions. Cryptographic Proof Cryptographic proofs validate claims without revealing sensitive information, ensuring security and privacy in blockchain and digital systems. Cryptography Cryptography secures blockchain transactions and data through encryption, enabling trustless, tamper-proof, and decentralized systems. Cryptology Cryptology is the scientific study of cryptography and cryptanalysis, including the study of their techniques. Cup and Handle The cup and handle chart pattern signals potential bullish trends, with a rounded bottom followed by a consolidation before an upward breakout. Custodial Wallet A custodial wallet stores users’ crypto with a third party, offering convenience but less control over private keys and assets. Customer Due Diligence (CDD) Customer Due Diligence (CDD) verifies crypto users’ identities to prevent fraud and comply with AML regulations. Cypherpunk Cypherpunks advocate using cryptography to promote digital privacy, decentralization, and freedom from centralized control.
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Dead Cat Bounce A Dead Cat Bounce is a short-lived price recovery in a downtrend, often misleading traders before the decline resumes. Death Cross A Death Cross occurs when short-term prices fall below long-term trends, signaling a bearish market shift. Decentralization Decentralization distributes control across a network, boosting transparency, security, and user autonomy in blockchain systems. Decentralized Applications (DApps) A decentralized application (DApp), is a distributed, open-source application, which runs on a blockchain network. Decentralized Autonomous Organization (DAO) As blockchain technology is being adopted at a large scale, a unique type of firm or institution has gained a lot of fame within the community. Decentralized Exchange (DEX) A decentralized crypto exchange is a blockchain-based app that coordinates large-scale trading of crypto assets between users. Decentralized Finance (DeFi) DeFi offers open, permissionless financial services using blockchain tech, removing middlemen and enabling global access to lending, trading, and more. Decryption Decryption converts encrypted data back to readable form, allowing secure access for authorized users in blockchain and crypto systems. Deflation Deflation is a drop in prices over time, often tied to fixed-supply cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, boosting purchasing power. Degen Degen is a slang term for high-risk crypto traders chasing quick gains, often in volatile or speculative markets. Delegated Proof of Stake (DPoS) DPoS lets token holders vote for trusted validators, boosting blockchain speed and efficiency while keeping it decentralized. Derivatives Derivatives are contracts based on underlying assets like cryptocurrencies, allowing for speculation and hedging, but come with risks due to leverage. Descending Triangle A descending triangle is a chart pattern indicating a potential bearish breakout, formed by lower highs and a horizontal support line. Descending Wedge A descending wedge is a bullish chart pattern signaling potential upward breakout as selling pressure weakens. DevP2P DevP2P is a blockchain protocol that enables peer-to-peer communication between nodes, crucial for decentralization, security, and scalability. DEX Aggregator A DEX Aggregator pools liquidity from multiple decentralized exchanges, helping users find the best prices and execute trades efficiently in DeFi. Diamond Hands Diamond Hands refers to an investor who holds their assets through market volatility, showing commitment and belief in long-term value. Digital Asset A Digital Asset is any asset that exists electronically, including cryptocurrencies, tokens, and NFTs, and is secured and verified by blockchain technology. Digital Asset Ecosystem A digital asset ecosystem is known as a concept that explains everything related to the crypto sector. Digital Signature A Digital Signature is a cryptographic technique used to verify the authenticity and integrity of digital messages, ensuring security in digital transactions. Dip A dip is a temporary price drop in a cryptocurrency or asset, often seen as a potential buying opportunity before prices rise again. Directed Acyclic Graph (DAG) A Directed Acyclic Graph (DAG) is a data structure used in some blockchains to improve scalability by processing multiple transactions simultaneously. Distributed Ledger A distributed ledger is a decentralized, shared database ensuring transparency, security, and efficiency across participants, with blockchain being the most common form. Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT) DLT is a decentralized data system ensuring transparency, security, and efficiency, with blockchain as a key example. Double Bottom The double bottom is a bullish reversal chart pattern that signals the end of a downtrend and the start of an upward trend. Double Top A Double Top pattern signals a trend reversal from uptrend to downtrend, indicating a potential sell-off and bearish market movement. Double-Spending Double-Spending is a risk in digital currencies where the same funds are spent more than once, mitigated by blockchain's consensus mechanisms. Dump A dump in cryptocurrency refers to selling large amounts of assets, often causing a price drop and market volatility. DYOR DYOR (Do Your Own Research) encourages investors to independently assess projects before investing, promoting informed decisions in the crypto market.
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E-Signature An e-signature (or electronic signature) refers to any electronic spot (symbol, sound, sign, etc.) that is utilized in a physical-signature palace to sign a contract or document. EIP EIP (Ethereum Improvement Proposal) is a formal document outlining changes or upgrades to the Ethereum network, fostering continuous development. Encryption Encryption secures blockchain data by converting it into unreadable ciphertext, protecting privacy and enabling safe, trustless transactions. Enterprise Blockchain An enterprise blockchain is a type of blockchain, which is used by businesses that want to streamline their processes at scale. ERC ERC (Ethereum Request for Comments) sets standards for creating tokens and smart contracts on Ethereum, promoting compatibility and innovation. ERC-1155 ERC-1155 allows the creation of both fungible and non-fungible tokens in one contract, improving efficiency and reducing gas fees on Ethereum. ERC-20 ERC stands for "Ethereum Request for comment" and the ERC-20 token is in use since 2015. ERC-223 ERC-223 is a token standard for Ethereum that improves on ERC-20 by reducing token loss and enabling safer transfers to smart contracts. ERC-721 ERC-721 is the Ethereum standard for creating non-fungible tokens, making it ideal for unique digital items like art, collectibles, and in-game assets. ERC-777 ERC-777 is an advanced Ethereum token standard offering enhanced flexibility, operator control, and token hooks for improved automation over ERC-20. ERC-827 ERC-827 is an Ethereum token standard extending ERC-20, allowing tokens to be transferred with additional data for enhanced smart contract interaction. ERC-884 ERC-884 is an Ethereum token standard for tokenizing company shares, allowing secure and transparent ownership management using blockchain technology. ERC-948 ERC-948 is an Ethereum standard for decentralized voting systems, enhancing governance and decision-making in blockchain networks through token-based voting. ETH ETH is Ether, the cryptocurrency of the Ethereum blockchain, used for transactions, gas fees, and powering decentralized applications. Ethereum Ethereum is a decentralized blockchain platform enabling smart contracts, decentralized apps, and cryptocurrency, with ETH as its native currency. Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) The Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) executes smart contracts and transactions on Ethereum, ensuring consistency across the network. Exchange An exchange is a platform for buying, selling, and trading cryptocurrencies, with centralized and decentralized options offering different benefits. Exchange-Traded Fund (ETF) An ETF is an investment fund traded on an exchange, offering exposure to assets like cryptocurrencies without direct ownership. Exit Liquidity Exit liquidity is the ability to sell an asset without significantly impacting its price, ensuring smooth transactions in crypto markets. Exit Scam An exit scam in the crypto sector is said to have happened when scammers profit from early investors in a crypto project by pulling out of a project. Exit Strategy An exit strategy is a plan to sell crypto assets at the right time to secure profits or limit losses.
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False Breakout A false breakout tricks traders by briefly moving past key price levels before reversing, often causing losses for those chasing trends. Faucet Crypto faucets are designed as websites, applications, or otherwise that distribute incremental amounts of crypto assets as a reward when you complete a task. Fear & Greed Index The Fear & Greed Index tracks market emotions to help traders identify opportunities based on sentiment extremes. Federated BFT (fBFT) Federated BFT uses trusted nodes for fast, secure consensus, ideal for private or consortium blockchains. Fiat Fiat is government-issued money like the dollar or euro, not backed by commodities but by trust and legal authority. Fibonacci Retracement Fibonacci retracement highlights key support and resistance levels to predict crypto price reversals and trend continuations. First-Mover Advantage In an industry, first movers are all the time trailed by challengers that endeavor to leverage the success of the first mover and have a share in the market. Flash Loan Attack Flash loan attacks are DeFi (Decentralized Finance) exploits where the attack takes place on a smart contract that is structured to stand by the delivery of flash loans, to drain off the assets kept in any specific pool. Floor Price Floor price is the lowest available price of an NFT in a collection, reflecting demand and acting as a key market indicator. FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) FOMO is the fear of missing out on opportunities, especially in crypto markets, often leading to impulsive investment decisions during market swings. Fork (Blockchain) A fork is an event on the blockchain that copies the original software and adds the desired changes to it, the new blockchain splits into two branches, forming a fork-like diversion from the main blockchain Fraud Proof Fraud proofs help detect invalid transactions in rollups, protecting blockchain integrity while supporting scalability. Froth Froth signals excessive speculation and hype in crypto markets, often preceding sharp price corrections or crashes. FUD FUD spreads fear and doubt in crypto markets, often triggering panic selling and price drops regardless of fundamentals. Fully Diluted Valuation (FDV) FDV estimates a crypto's value if all tokens were released, helping assess future supply impact and long-term potential. Fungible Fungible crypto assets are interchangeable and equal in value, enabling smooth and consistent trading or transactions.
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Halving Event A halving event reduces mining rewards by half, controlling the supply of new coins and potentially impacting the cryptocurrency's price and network security. Hardware Wallet Hardware wallet stores your private keys in a secure, physical device. It is considered the safest option to store your crypto assets personally Hash A hash is a cryptographic function that converts data into a unique string, ensuring data integrity and security, essential for blockchain verification. Hashing Hashing is the process of converting input data into a fixed-length, unique string, ensuring data integrity and security in blockchain and cryptography. Hashrate Hashrate measures the computational power in cryptocurrency mining, indicating how quickly miners solve cryptographic puzzles and secure the blockchain network. Hedging Hedging is a strategy to minimize risk in cryptocurrency by taking opposite positions in related assets, helping to protect investments from market fluctuations. Herd Behaviour Herd behaviour in cryptocurrency is when investors follow the crowd, often leading to price swings and market trends based on emotions rather than fundamentals. High-Frequency Trading (HFT) High-Frequency Trading (HFT) uses algorithms and powerful computers to execute fast trades in crypto markets, often exploiting small price movements for profit. HODL HODL refers to holding cryptocurrency assets for the long term, ignoring short-term market fluctuations in anticipation of future gains. Honeypot A honeypot is a scam in the crypto world where fake tokens or investments trap victims, preventing them from withdrawing funds once they engage. Hooks Hooks are customizable code points in blockchain systems, enabling developers to trigger actions and enhance functionality in decentralized apps. Hot Wallet Hot wallets are internet-connected wallets that allow easy access to cryptocurrency but come with increased security risks. Hyperledger Foundation The Hyperledger Foundation is an open-source initiative that aims to help developers construct distributed ledgers on the blockchain.
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Iceberg Order Iceberg orders allow large trades to be executed in smaller portions, hiding the full order size to minimize market impact and reduce price manipulation risks. Immutability Immutability ensures blockchain data can't be changed or deleted, securing trust and transparency in decentralized systems. Impermanent Loss An impermanent loss in crypto is a net difference between the value of two cryptocurrency assets in a liquidity pool-based automated market maker. Impossible Trinity The Impossible Trinity shows a system can't have fixed rates, free capital flow, and monetary control all at once—only two are possible. Infinite Mint Attack An infinite mint attack occurs when a malicious entity hacks a protocol and begins minting an excessive number of tokens. Initial Coin Offering (ICO) ICO, an abridged form of Initial Coin Offering, denotes a type of crowd sale or crowdfunding with the utilization of crypto as a source of enhancing the collection of capital for the firms in their early phase. Initial Exchange Offering (IEO) An IEO is a token sale managed by a crypto exchange, offering more trust and visibility than traditional ICOs. Institutional Investor Institutional investors are large entities that invest heavily in markets, boosting crypto's credibility and market depth. Internet of Things (IoT) IoT connects smart devices to the internet, and with blockchain, enables secure, automated data sharing and transactions. Interoperability Interoperability lets blockchains and platforms work together, enabling seamless asset and data transfers across networks.
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Layer-0 Layer-0 is the foundational layer enabling blockchain networks to connect, scale, and interoperate across ecosystems. Layer-1 Layer-1 is the core blockchain layer where transactions and smart contracts are processed, forming the base of the crypto ecosystem. Layer-2 Layer 2 is a term used in blockchain circles when talking about solutions that help to scale an app by processing transactions off the main blockchain network, called the mainnet or Layer 1. Ledger A ledger in blockchain is a decentralized record of transactions that ensures transparency, immutability, and trustless verification. Left-Translated Cycle A left-translated cycle peaks early in a market phase, often followed by a long correction or decline. Leverage Leverage lets traders borrow funds to increase position size, amplifying both potential profits and risks. LFG LFG (Let’s F**king Go) is a popular crypto term expressing excitement, often used to hype up projects, price movements, or market events. Lightning Network The Lightning Network is a layer 2 scaling solution designed for the Bitcoin mainnet. Liquidation Call A liquidation call occurs when a trader’s margin drops below the required level, requiring them to add funds or face position liquidation. Liquidity The term liquidity means how easy and fast conversion of cryptocurrency to fiat currency is, and whether it can be done without affecting the value of the asset. Liquidity Pool A liquidity pool is a smart contract holding tokens, enabling seamless trades on decentralized exchanges and rewards for liquidity providers. Liquidity Provider (LP) A Liquidity Provider (LP) contributes assets to liquidity pools, earning fees while ensuring smooth and efficient trades on decentralized exchanges. Lockup Lockup is a period when assets are restricted from being sold or transferred, ensuring market stability after an ICO or token release. Long A long position is when an asset is bought with the expectation its price will rise, allowing traders to profit from upward market movements. Loss Aversion Loss aversion describes the tendency to fear losses more than equivalent gains, often influencing emotional decision-making in trading and investing.
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Mainchain The mainchain is the central blockchain in a multi-chain system, handling key transactions and ensuring security and integrity across the network. Mainnet Mainnet is the live, fully operational blockchain network that processes real transactions and supports decentralized applications and cryptocurrencies. Maker Fee A Maker Fee is the fee charged by exchanges to users who place limit orders, providing liquidity and contributing to market efficiency. Margin Call A margin call occurs when an investor's account falls below the maintenance margin, requiring more funds or asset liquidation. Market Bubble A Market Bubble occurs when asset prices are inflated beyond their true value due to speculation, often leading to a sharp correction when the bubble bursts. Market Cap Market Cap is the total value of a crypto asset, calculated by price × supply, used to compare size and market dominance. Market Correction A market correction is a short-term price drop that realigns overvalued markets, common after crypto rallies. Market Order A market order executes a trade instantly at the best price, prioritizing speed over exact pricing in crypto trading. Market Sentiment Market sentiment reflects traders’ collective emotions and helps predict crypto price moves. Memecoin A memecoin, also known as a meme coin or a meme cryptocurrency, is a cryptocurrency that begins life as a joke. Mempool Mempool is a temporary holding area where unconfirmed blockchain transactions wait to be picked up and validated by miners or validators. Merkle Leaf A Merkle Leaf is the hashed base unit in a Merkle Tree, enabling efficient data verification in blockchains. Merkle Proof Merkle Proofs confirm that a piece of data is part of a larger dataset by verifying its inclusion in a Merkle Tree without revealing the entire dataset. Merkle Root The Merkle Root is a single hash that represents all data in a Merkle Tree, ensuring efficient and secure data verification. Merkle Tree A Merkle Tree is a hash-based structure that securely organizes and verifies large blockchain data sets. Metadata Metadata describes digital assets, adding context and utility—essential for NFTs and blockchain records. Metaverse The metaverse is a digital world where users interact, trade, and live through avatars—often built on blockchain and NFTs. Miner A miner verifies transactions and adds blocks to a blockchain, earning crypto rewards while securing the network. Mining Mining involves solving cryptographic puzzles to validate transactions, add blocks to the blockchain, and secure the network, earning cryptocurrency rewards. Mining Pool In the crypto world, a mining pool refers to a group created by cryptocurrency miners, who combine their computational power to improve their chances of successfully mining crypto. Mining Reward A mining reward is the cryptocurrency given to miners for validating transactions and adding blocks, ensuring the security and continuity of the blockchain. Mint Minting is the process of creating new tokens or coins on a blockchain, essential for generating NFTs and cryptocurrencies, supporting ecosystem growth. Mint Price Mint price is the initial cost for newly minted tokens or NFTs, set by creators, and often impacts early adoption and market success. Modern Portfolio Theory (MPT) Modern Portfolio Theory (MPT) maximizes returns for a given risk level through diversification, helping investors create balanced, high-performance portfolios. Moon In cryptocurrency, "moon" describes a rapid price increase, symbolizing a sharp rise in value often fueled by market enthusiasm. Multi-Signature Authentication Multi-signature authentication enhances security by requiring multiple private keys for transaction authorization, preventing unauthorized access. Multi-Signature Wallet A multi-signature wallet requires multiple private keys to authorize transactions, adding extra security and preventing unauthorized access to funds.
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OCO Order An OCO order links two trades so that triggering one cancels the other, helping automate risk and profit strategies in crypto trading. Off-Chain Off-chain refers to blockchain-related activity that occurs outside the ledger to improve speed, lower costs, and ease network load. On-Chain On-chain transactions denote the transactions that take place on a blockchain and are reflected on the public ledger and the distribution. Open Price Open price is the first recorded trade price of an asset at the start of a new trading session or chart interval. Open-Source Open-source means software with public code access, enabling transparency, collaboration, and innovation in blockchain and beyond. Open-Source Blockchain An open-source blockchain lets anyone inspect or contribute to its code, promoting transparency and trust in decentralized systems. Optimistic Rollup Optimistic Rollups boost blockchain scalability by batching transactions off-chain and using fraud proofs to ensure security. Oracle Oracles connect blockchains to real-world data, enabling smart contracts to react to external events like prices or weather. ORC-20 Token ORC-20 is a token standard on Bitcoin using Ordinals, designed to improve token functionality beyond the earlier BRC-20 format. Order Book An order book displays real-time buy and sell orders for an asset, helping traders gauge market activity and liquidity. Ordinals Ordinals allow users to inscribe data onto individual satoshis, enabling NFT-like functionality directly on the Bitcoin blockchain. Orphan Block An orphan block is a valid but rejected block not included in the main blockchain due to another block being accepted first. Over-the-Counter (OTC) Over-the-Counter is the term referring to a transaction made external to an exchange, normally peer-to-peer via private trades. Overbought Overbought describes assets trading above value after a surge, often signaling a potential price pullback or correction. Oversold Oversold signals an asset may be undervalued after heavy selling, hinting at a possible price rebound.
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Paper Hands Paper hands refers to investors who panic sell quickly, lacking the resolve to hold through market dips. Paper Wallet A paper wallet is a non-custodial offline (cold storage) wallet for bitcoin (BTC) and other cryptocurrencies. Parachain Parachains are heterogeneous blockchains that are connected to Polkadot and Kusama and thus achieve their scalability and interoperability Passkey Passkeys are passwordless logins using biometrics or device verification, offering safer, easier access to crypto accounts and apps. Pectra Pectra is Ethereum’s next major upgrade, improving wallet UX, validator functionality, and overall network efficiency. Peer-to-Peer (P2P) P2P enables direct interaction between users in blockchain networks, removing the need for central authorities. Permissionless Permissionless blockchains let anyone join and interact freely without central approval, promoting decentralization and inclusivity. Plaintext Plaintext is unencrypted data that’s readable and must be secured in crypto systems to protect privacy and prevent interception. Play-to-Earn (P2E) Play-to-Earn (P2E) games reward players with crypto or NFTs, turning gameplay into a source of real-world income. Politically Exposed Person (PEP) A Politically Exposed Person (PEP) holds public influence and poses a higher financial risk, requiring stricter checks in crypto and banking. Portfolio A portfolio is a collection of investments that diversifies risk and maximizes returns, with proper management balancing risk to achieve financial goals. Practical Byzantine Fault Tolerance (PBFT) PBFT is a consensus method that helps blockchains stay secure and reliable even when some nodes act maliciously or fail. Price Discovery Price discovery is how markets find the fair value of an asset through buyer-seller interaction, demand, and real-time data. Private Chain A private chain is a restricted-access blockchain used by organizations for secure, efficient, and permissioned operations. Private Key A private key is a secret cryptographic key used to sign transactions and control digital assets. Keeping it secure is essential to prevent unauthorized access. Proof of Activity (PoA) Proof of Activity blends PoW and PoS to offer secure, energy-efficient blockchain consensus through a two-step validation process. Proof of Authority (PoA) Proof of Authority uses trusted validators to secure a blockchain, offering high speed and efficiency for private or permissioned networks. Proof of Burn (PoB) Proof of Burn secures blockchains by having users destroy tokens to prove commitment and gain block validation rights. Proof of Capacity (PoC) Proof of Capacity uses hard drive space instead of computing power to mine blocks, offering a greener and more accessible consensus method. Proof of Elapsed Time (PoET) Proof of Elapsed Time assigns block rights after a random wait, verified by hardware, offering efficient and fair blockchain consensus. Proof of History (PoH) Proof of History timestamps events to speed up consensus, enabling ultra-fast transaction processing on networks like Solana. Proof of Importance (PoI) Proof of Importance rewards both token ownership and network activity, encouraging deeper user participation in blockchain consensus. Proof of Replication (PoRep) Proof of Replication ensures data is uniquely stored on a miner’s hardware, boosting trust in decentralized storage systems. Proof of Reputable Observations (PRO) Proof of Reputable Observations uses trusted oracles to validate blockchain data, ensuring secure and credible consensus. Proof-Of-Stake (PoS) Proof-of-stake is a Cryptocurrency consensus mechanism that eliminates the need for the electricity sucking gear called Proof-of-work. Proof-Of-Work (PoW) Proof of work is a blockchain consensus mechanism used to validate transactions and create new blocks on a blockchain. Public Chain A public chain is a fully open blockchain where anyone can join, validate, and interact with data without restrictions. Public Key A public key is a cryptographic key used to receive transactions and verify signatures, ensuring secure communication in blockchain networks.
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Rank Rank is a system used to prioritize or evaluate entities in blockchain based on performance metrics, helping users make informed decisions. Real-World Assets (RWA) Real-World Assets (RWAs) are physical or financial assets tokenized on a blockchain, enabling broader, more efficient digital ownership and trading. Rebalancing Rebalancing is known as a procedure to realign an asset portfolio’s weightage, taking into account selling or purchasing assets systematically to keep a specified scale of risk and asset allocation. Recency Bias Recency Bias is a cognitive bias where recent events are overemphasized, potentially skewing judgment and decision-making in blockchain and finance. Rekt Rekt refers to significant financial loss in crypto, often due to poor investments or market volatility, serving as a cautionary term in the industry. Relative Strength Index (RSI) The Relative Strength Index (RSI) measures price momentum, helping traders identify overbought or oversold conditions to make informed decisions. Remittances Remittances are money transfers sent by individuals to family or friends, often facilitated by blockchain for faster and cheaper cross-border payments. Resistance Resistance is a price ceiling where selling pressure often halts an asset’s rise, key for predicting market reversals. Retail Investors Retail investors are individual, non-professional investors who trade for personal accounts, influencing market trends, especially in crypto and securities. Right-Translated Market Cycle A right-translated market cycle peaks later than usual, suggesting extended bullish momentum before a shorter, milder correction phase. Ripple Ripple is a fintech company using blockchain to power fast, low-cost cross-border payments, and supports the XRP Ledger and XRP token. Roadmap A roadmap is a project’s strategic timeline, outlining goals and development milestones to guide progress and build investor confidence. RPC RPC is a protocol that lets apps communicate with blockchain nodes, enabling actions like sending transactions or reading data. RSA RSA is a public-key encryption algorithm that secures digital data and supports identity verification in blockchain and online systems. Rug Pull A rug pull is a crypto scam where developers vanish with investor funds, often after hyping a token or project in DeFi or NFTs.
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Satoshi Nakamoto Satoshi Nakamoto is the mysterious creator of Bitcoin, whose work launched the global movement toward decentralized digital currency. Satoshis (Sats) Satoshis (Sats) are the smallest unit of Bitcoin, enabling microtransactions and making BTC more accessible to everyday users. Scalability Scalability is a blockchain’s capacity to handle growing transaction loads efficiently without compromising speed or cost. Scalability Trilemma The scalability trilemma refers to the trade-off between scalability, security, and decentralization in blockchain design. Security Token A security token is a regulated digital asset that represents ownership or rights in real-world financial products like stocks or bonds. Seed (Recovery) Phrase A recovery phrase (also known as seed phrase) in brief, is the string of 12 to 24 words specifically assigned to your Cryptocurrency wallet address to get access to it. SHA-256 SHA-256 is a cryptographic hash function that secures data on the Bitcoin blockchain through unique, tamper-proof digital signatures. Sharding Sharding splits a blockchain into smaller parts to boost scalability, allowing faster, parallel processing of transactions across the network. Shill Shilling is the aggressive promotion of a crypto asset, often to drive hype or price without regard to its actual value or risks. Short Selling Short selling is a high-risk trading strategy that profits from falling crypto prices by borrowing and selling assets, then buying them back cheaper. Sidechain A sidechain is a separate blockchain linked to a main chain, enabling faster, scalable transactions and experimental features. Slashing Slashing is a penalty in PoS blockchains that burns a validator’s stake for dishonest or harmful actions, helping secure the network. Slippage Slippage is the price difference between when a crypto trade is placed and executed, often caused by volatility or low liquidity. Smart Contract A smart contract, at its core, is a program that is stored on a blockchain, which runs when predetermined conditions are met. Software Wallet A software wallet is a digital app that stores crypto keys and allows secure sending, receiving, and managing of assets on mobile or desktop. Solidity Solidity is Ethereum’s main programming language used to build smart contracts and decentralized applications on EVM-based blockchains. Sound Wallet A Sound Wallet stores crypto keys in audio form, offering a secure, offline method using CDs or vinyl to keep private keys safe. Stablecoin Stablecoins are known as cryptocurrencies that have a static value and are normally pegged to a fiat currency (such as the U.S. dollar) Staking Staking in crypto is the process of using a given cryptocurrency to verify a transaction. Staking Pool A staking pool lets users combine crypto to earn PoS rewards together, making staking more accessible and consistent for smaller holders. State Channels State Channels let users transact off-chain, reducing fees and congestion while keeping blockchain-level security for final settlement. Stochastic Oscillator The Stochastic Oscillator is a momentum tool that highlights overbought or oversold crypto prices to help traders spot trend reversals. Stop-Limit Order A stop-limit order lets crypto traders set a trigger and minimum price, offering more control during volatile market conditions. Stop-Loss Order A stop-loss order sells crypto automatically at a set price to help limit losses during sharp market downturns. Support Level A support level is a key price point where crypto buyers step in, helping to prevent further price declines and indicating potential bounce zones. Symmetrical Triangle A symmetrical triangle is a neutral chart pattern that signals price consolidation before a breakout in either direction.
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Taker Fee A taker fee is a charge for executing market orders that match existing limit orders, removing liquidity from the order book. Tendermint Tendermint is a blockchain consensus engine combining Byzantine Fault Tolerance and networking for secure, scalable blockchain applications. Testnet A testnet is a network built for developers in a blockchain project to serve as a testing ground for new ideas without disrupting the core network. The DAO Hack The DAO Hack was a 2016 Ethereum exploit that led to a $60M loss and caused the Ethereum–Ethereum Classic blockchain split. Time to Finality (TTF) Time to Finality (TTF) is how long it takes for a blockchain transaction to become irreversible and fully confirmed. Timestamp A blockchain timestamp records the exact time a block or transaction is added, ensuring order and traceability across the network. Token A token is a digital asset built on a blockchain, used to represent value, rights, or utility within a crypto ecosystem. Tokenomics Tokenomics is the short form of the broader term ‘token economics’ that the cryptocurrency proponents use to point toward how the monetary policy will be followed by the token with simultaneous progress in the project with time. Tower Byzantine Fault Tolerance (Tower BFT) Tower BFT is Solana’s consensus mechanism that combines PoH with BFT to achieve fast, secure, and scalable blockchain consensus. TradFi TradFi refers to traditional finance systems like banks and stock markets, using centralized intermediaries and regulatory frameworks. Trading Trading is known as an act of making speculations about the movements of the crypto price through an account of CFD trading, or selling and purchasing the original coins through an exchange. Trading Fees Trading fees are charges on crypto exchanges for buying or selling assets, typically based on trade size and user activity. Transaction Volume Transaction volume measures the total number or value of transactions over time on a blockchain or trading platform. Transactions Per Second (TPS) Transactions Per Second (TPS) measures how many transactions a blockchain processes each second, reflecting its speed and scalability. Trendline A trendline connects key price points on a chart to visualize the direction and strength of a market trend, helping traders predict movements. Trustless Trustless systems use decentralized technology and cryptography to eliminate the need for intermediaries, ensuring security and transparency. Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) adds extra security by requiring users to provide a second form of identification, protecting accounts from unauthorized access.
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Validator A blockchain validator is someone who is responsible for verifying transactions on a blockchain. Value Value refers to the worth of an asset, influenced by demand, utility, and scarcity, and is crucial for understanding market dynamics. Vapourware Vapourware is a hyped product that’s never delivered, often seen in crypto as empty promises with no working technology. Vault A vault is a secure crypto storage method with advanced features like time locks or multi-signature access for enhanced protection. Verifiable Delay Functions (VDFs) VDFs are cryptographic functions that enforce time delays for fairness while offering fast and easy result verification. Verkle Tree Verkle trees are scalable data structures that enable compact proofs, improving blockchain performance and storage efficiency. Vest/Vesting Period A vesting period is a timed release of tokens, used to reward commitment and prevent sudden sell-offs in crypto projects. Virtual Machine A virtual machine is a software-based environment that executes smart contracts across blockchains like Ethereum in a secure, consistent way. Vitalik Buterin Vitalik Buterin is the co-founder of Ethereum and a key figure in blockchain innovation, known for creating smart contract functionality. Volatility Volatility measures how much asset prices move, with crypto known for rapid and unpredictable swings. Volume Volume shows how much of a crypto asset is traded in a given period and helps gauge market activity and trend strength.