Essential cryptocurrency and blockchain terms explained. 75 definitions from Airdrop to Zero-Knowledge Proof.
Cryptocurrency is a digital or virtual form of currency that uses cryptography for security and operates on decentralized blockchain networks. Unlike traditional currencies issued by governments (fiat), cryptocurrencies are not controlled by any central authority.
A distributed, immutable digital ledger that records transactions across many computers. The foundation technology of cryptocurrencies.
Decentralized Finance — financial services built on blockchain technology, operating without traditional intermediaries like banks.
A coin is the native cryptocurrency of its own blockchain (e.g., BTC on Bitcoin, ETH on Ethereum), while a token is created on top of an existing blockchain using standards like ERC-20. Tokens do not have their own blockchain.
The total value of a cryptocurrency, calculated as current price multiplied by circulating supply.