Web3.0
Crypto
Crypto Market
Any cryptocurrency that’s not Bitcoin.
Algorithmic Stablecoin
A stablecoin that uses algorithms to adjust supply, increasing when prices rise and reducing when they fall.
Arbitrage
The practice of buying and selling the same asset on different exchanges to profit from price differences.
AMLD5
The EU’s 5th Anti-Money Laundering Directive updates the union’s AML framework to tighten anti-money laundering controls.
Apeing
When a trader buys a new token impulsively, often without research, just after launch.
Arm Virtual Machine (Qtum)
Qtum’s virtual machine that enables decentralized application execution.
Attestation Ledger
An attestation ledger is a record that verifies individual transactions, serving as proof that a transaction occurred or confirming the authenticity of transactions or products.
A decentralized digital ledger that records transactions across many computers.
Bitcoin
Bitcoin is a decentralized digital currency that operates without the need for intermediaries like banks, powered by blockchain technology. It enables peer-to-peer transactions globally, secured through cryptography.
Bitcoin ETF
A wallet for your crypto that’s not connected to the internet, like a piggy bank but more secure.
Consortium
A consortium is a group of organizations collaborating to achieve shared goals, often in a regulated, managed environment. In crypto, Centre (Consortium) is a partnership between Coinbase and Circle to oversee the USD Coin (USDC), ensuring its stability and utility as a dollar-pegged stablecoin for secure global digital payments.
Dapp
DApps, or decentralized applications, are software applications that run on blockchain networks rather than centralized servers, allowing for more transparency and user control. These apps operate through smart contracts, enabling trustless interactions in areas like finance, gaming, and social media.
DeFi
DeFi, short for decentralized finance, refers to a blockchain-based financial ecosystem that enables users to access financial services like lending, borrowing, and trading without intermediaries like banks. It operates through smart contracts on decentralized networks, primarily on the Ethereum blockchain.
DEX
A DEX, or decentralized exchange, is a peer-to-peer platform that allows users to trade cryptocurrencies directly without intermediaries, like traditional exchanges. DEXs operate on blockchain technology, using smart contracts to execute trades securely and transparently.
Decentralized
Decentralization is a system characteristic where nodes or participants collaborate in a distributed network to reach a shared objective.
Decentralized Identifier (DID)
Email Spoofing
Email spoofing is a technique used to make an email appear as if it came from a trusted sender, tricking recipients into believing it’s authentic. It’s often used in phishing attacks to steal sensitive information.
Emission
Emission refers to the rate at which new coins are created and added to the market. Example: Bitcoin’s emission rate decreases roughly every four years through “halving,” reducing the number of new bitcoins created to control inflation.
Epoch
In blockchain, an epoch is a specific period or set number of blocks after which certain protocol updates, validator rotations, or reward distributions occur. For example, in Ethereum 2.0, an epoch consists of 32 slots (blocks), after which validator duties and penalties are assessed. Epochs help organize blockchain processes and maintain network security.
Event Trigger
In blockchain, event triggers are signals smart contracts emit when certain conditions are met, often used for notifications or interactions.
Example: A DeFi protocol might trigger an event when a loan is approved, notifying the user instantly.
Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM)
The EVM is Ethereum’s code execution environment, running smart contracts and maintaining network consensus.
Example: When a smart contract is deployed, it’s executed on the EVM by all Ethereum nodes, ensuring the contract runs correctly.
ERC 7512
ERC-7512 is an Ethereum standard for securely storing and accessing audit reports directly on the blockchain.
Example: A business can use ERC-7512 to make audit data transparent and easily verifiable for regulatory compliance.
ERC 1155
ERC-1155 is a token standard for creating both fungible (identical) and non-fungible (unique) assets on Ethereum, offering better security and flexibility than previous standards.
Example: In gaming, ERC-1155 tokens can represent both in-game currency and unique items, allowing players to trade them securely.
ERC 20
ERC-20 is a standard for creating interchangeable tokens on Ethereum, used widely for ICOs and other projects.
Example: Many cryptocurrencies like USDC and DAI use ERC-20 tokens, making them compatible with most Ethereum wallets.
ERC-721
ERC-721 is the Ethereum standard for creating unique, non-fungible tokens (NFTs).
Example: Digital art and collectibles like CryptoKitties use ERC-721 tokens, giving each item a unique identity on the blockchain.
Exit Scam
An exit scam is when a project suddenly shuts down after collecting funds, leaving investors with losses.
Example: A fraudulent crypto project might raise millions, then disappear without delivering its promised product.
Flash Loan
A flash loan is an uncollateralized loan that must be repaid within the same transaction. For instance, in DeFi, someone might take a flash loan to take advantage of temporary price differences between exchanges.
Flash Bot
Flashbots is a project aimed at reducing harmful effects from Maximal Extractable Value (MEV) in Ethereum. For example, flashbots provide a way for miners to avoid front-running attacks, improving the fairness of the network.
Front Running
Front running involves placing orders based on knowledge of upcoming transactions. For example, a trader may observe a large buy order and place their buy order first to benefit from the subsequent price rise.
FUD (Fear, Uncertainty, and Doubt)
FUD is spreading negative information to sway market perception. For instance, rumors that a government might ban a cryptocurrency could cause FUD, leading investors to panic sell.
Full Node
A full node fully validates transactions and blocks by downloading the entire blockchain, enforcing all protocol rules.
Fusion Rollups
Fusion rollups combine multiple scalability solutions for efficient blockchain processing. For example, fusion rollups may use both appchains and shared rollups to improve transaction speeds.
GameFi
GameFi refers to play-to-earn blockchain games where players can earn rewards. For example, in Axie Infinity, players earn cryptocurrency by completing in-game tasks.
GPG Encryption
GNU Privacy Guard (GPG) is a widely-used implementation of OpenPGP (Pretty Good Privacy). This open-source tool provides a secure way to encrypt and sign communications and data, serving as a free alternative to PGP.
Geth
Geth, short for Go Ethereum, is a command-line tool that enables developers to operate full Ethereum nodes, mine Ether, and execute smart contracts.
Hard Cap
A hard cap represents the fixed maximum supply limit of a digital asset.
Hard Peg
A hard peg is an exchange rate policy in which a currency is firmly fixed at a specific rate against another currency.
Hidden Cap
A hidden cap is an undisclosed limit on the funds a team chooses to raise from investors during an initial coin offering (ICO). By keeping this cap private, smaller investors have a more equal opportunity to participate, preventing large investors from fully gauging the total funding limit and adjusting their contributions accordingly.
HODL
HODL is a passive investment strategy where investors hold onto an asset long-term, regardless of market or price fluctuations. The term originated from a typo in a Bitcoin forum and has since come to mean “Hold On for Dear Life,” embodying the commitment to stay invested through market ups and downs.
Impermanent Loss
Impermanent loss occurs when a liquidity provider experiences a temporary reduction in their funds due to price volatility within a trading pair.
Infinite Approval
Infinite approval is the act of pre-authorizing a smart contract to spend an unlimited amount of your tokens on a platform.
Input-Output Hong Kong (IOHK)
Originally known as Input-Output Hong Kong (IOHK), now called Input-Output Global, the organization was founded in 2015 by Charles Hoskinson to deliver blockchain infrastructure solutions for research and engineering companies.
Institutional Investor
An Institutional Investor is an organization or legal entity that operates in financial markets, making investment decisions on behalf of its clients, who can include both retail and high-net-worth individuals.
In the crypto space, examples of institutional investors include firms like Grayscale, which manages cryptocurrency trusts; MicroStrategy, known for its significant Bitcoin holdings; and large hedge funds like Pantera Capital, which invests in blockchain-related assets and startups. These investors play a critical role in market liquidity and often influence trends and asset prices through large-scale transactions.
Inter-Blockchain Communication (IBC)
Inter-Blockchain Communication (IBC) is a protocol that enables different blockchains to exchange messages and data securely and efficiently. This technology is pivotal in promoting interoperability across the blockchain ecosystem, allowing various networks to work together seamlessly. For example, in the Cosmos ecosystem, IBC enables blockchains like Cosmos Hub and Osmosis to transfer assets and information directly. Similarly, Terra and Secret Network leverage IBC to facilitate cross-chain transactions, enhancing the usability and interconnectedness of decentralized applications.
Internet of Things (IoT)
The Internet of Things is a global network of interconnected devices, sensors, and software that collect and exchange data with one another in real-time over the internet.
Internet Service Provider (ISP)
Internet Service Providers are commercial entities that offer end-users access to the internet, enabling connectivity to online services and resources.
Interoperability
Blockchain interoperability, or cross-chain interoperability, refers to the ability to share and access information across multiple blockchains, enhancing connectivity and cooperation between different networks.
InterPlanetary File System (IPFS)
The InterPlanetary File System is a peer-to-peer, distributed storage system for files, websites, and applications, using content-based addressing instead of location-based, which improves efficiency and accessibility.
Blockchain interoperability, or cross-chain interoperability, refers to the ability to share and access information across multiple blockchains, enhancing connectivity and cooperation between different networks.
IOU
An IOU, meaning “I owe you,” is a simple document acknowledging a debt from one party to another.
IP Address
An IP address is a unique identifier in numerical format assigned to each device connected to the internet or a local network, enabling digital communication and data transfer.
Laser Eyes
Laser eyes is a popular Twitter meme adopted by Bitcoin enthusiasts aiming to rally support for Bitcoin’s rise to new all-time highs. The trend began with the hashtag #LaserRayUntil100 in February 2021, symbolizing the community’s collective goal of reaching $100,000 per BTC.
MEV Protection
Methods and tools designed to protect crypto transactions from exploitation through Maximal Extractable Value (MEV).
Metatransaction
Microchain
Lightweight chains operating in parallel with shared validators. In these networks, block proposal and validation are handled separately.
Micropayment
A very small online transaction, sometimes less than a cent.
Microtransaction
A business model involving small payments for digital goods and services, like game items or eBook pages.
MilliBitcoin (mBTC)
A sub-unit of Bitcoin, equal to one-thousandth of a BTC.
Mineable
Cryptocurrencies that can be created through mining, where miners earn rewards for contributing computational power. Not Mineable describes cryptocurrencies created through methods like staking rather than mining.
Miners
Individuals or entities involved in the process of mining, ranging from hobbyists to large-scale operations.
Minimum Collateralization Ratio (MCR)
The minimum collateral required to secure a loan in crypto finance.
Minimum Viable Product (MVP)
A product version with core features to attract early users and validate the concept.
Mining
The process of adding blocks to a blockchain and verifying transactions, also how new Bitcoin and certain altcoins are created.
Mining Algorithm
A set of rules guiding the generation of new blocks in a blockchain network.
Mining as a Service (MaaS)
A service allowing users to rent mining capacity from companies for cryptocurrency mining.
Mining Contract
Also known as cloud mining, this service allows users to rent or invest in online mining resources.
Mining Difficulty
The complexity level of finding a valid hash for the next block in a cryptocurrency network.
Mining Farm
A collective of miners working together, often to optimize energy use and resources.
Mining Pool
An arrangement where miners combine their resources to increase their chances of finding the next block.
Mining Reward
Compensation received by miners for successfully mining and validating a block.
Minting
The creation of new coins through proof-of-stake, adding them to the circulating supply.
Mnemonic Phrase
A sequence of words used to access or restore crypto assets.
Mempool
A collection of unconfirmed transactions stored within a node, awaiting inclusion in a blockchain block.
Memecoin
A cryptocurrency created primarily as a joke or meme, often promising high potential gains for holders.
Masternodes
Masternodes are specialized servers operated by their owners, similar to full nodes but with extra features like transaction anonymization, transaction clearing, and participation in governance and voting. Originally popularized by Dash, masternodes reward their operators for supporting the blockchain’s infrastructure and services.
Multi-Party Computation (MPC)
A cryptographic method that distributes computational tasks across multiple parties, ensuring that no single entity can view the data of the other participants.
Multi-Party Computation as-a-Service
A business model where enterprises and individuals can rent MPC nodes from a provider, rather than building or purchasing their own infrastructure.
Multi-Signature (Multi-Sig)
An additional security feature requiring multiple keys to authorize a transaction.
Multiple Data Availability (MultiDA)
A blockchain architecture that employs multiple data availability services to enhance data redundancy.
My Story (VeChain)
A blockchain-based digital assurance system developed by DNV and VeChain.
Name Wrapper
A smart contract that enables registered ENS names to be converted into NFTs, enhancing their customization options.
Negative Volume Index (NVI)
A technical indicator that tracks price movement influenced by low-volume periods.
Network
All active nodes within a blockchain system at any given time.
Network-Enhanced Virtual Machine (NEVM)
A virtual machine combining the strengths of Bitcoin and Ethereum, designed to support smart contracts with enhanced interoperability and scalability.
NGMI
Short for “Not Gonna Make It,” a crypto slang term expressing doubt or skepticism about an investment, project, or strategy.
Nominators
Nominators are participants in blockchain networks utilizing the nominated proof-of-stake (NPoS) consensus mechanism, where they back validators to secure the network.
Notarization on Blockchain
Notarization on blockchain leverages blockchain’s inherent advantages to create timestamped artifacts. These artifacts provide secure and verifiable proof of authorship and identity at any time.
Off-Chain
Off-chain refers to transactions processed outside the blockchain network, offering increased speed and reduced costs.
Off-Chain Governance
Off-chain governance is an informal decision-making process for blockchain improvements that occurs outside the primary blockchain codebase.
Off-Chain Transaction
An off-chain transaction occurs on a secondary network, transferring value outside the blockchain to reduce on-chain activity.
Off-Ledger Currency
Off-ledger currency is created outside a blockchain ledger but can still be used and accepted within its ecosystem.
Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC)
The OCC is a U.S. Treasury branch overseeing national banks, federal savings associations, and foreign bank agencies.
Offline Storage
Offline storage refers to securing cryptocurrencies on devices or systems not connected to the internet, often for enhanced security.
Offshore Account
An offshore account is a foreign bank account holding assets and investments outside the account holder’s home country.
OHM Fork
An OHM fork refers to projects derived from OlympusDAO’s codebase, creating new financial products with similar frameworks.
Omnichain
Omnichain describes blockchain infrastructure designed for seamless interaction, data transfer, and transaction settlement across multiple blockchains.
On-Balance Volume (OBV)
OBV is a technical indicator that predicts price movements based on volume flow trends.
On-Chain
On-chain transactions are recorded directly on the blockchain and shared with all network participants.
On-Chain Governance
On-chain governance is a decentralized decision-making system for managing updates and improvements to blockchain networks.
On-Ledger Currency
An on-ledger currency is created and used directly within its blockchain ledger, like Bitcoin.
Onchain Fiat
Onchain fiat represents regulated stablecoins enabling seamless transitions between traditional bank accounts and Web3 environments.
One Cancels the Other Order (OCO)
An OCO order involves placing two simultaneous orders where the execution of one cancels the other.
Online Storage
Online storage stores cryptocurrencies on devices connected to the internet, providing easy accessibility.
P2P Bridge
A P2P bridge is a feature on decentralized exchanges (DEXs) that allows two users to swap the same cryptocurrency between two blockchain protocols without the need for intermediaries.
P2P DEX
A P2P DEX (peer-to-peer decentralized exchange) is a blockchain-based platform that facilitates direct cryptocurrency trading between users without a central authority.
P2P Trading
Peer-to-peer (P2P) trading involves decentralized transactions where two users directly exchange cryptocurrencies without a third party’s involvement.
Pair
A pair refers to a trading pair between two cryptocurrencies, such as BTC/ETH.
Paper Trading
Paper trading is the practice of simulating trades in a virtual environment without using real money, often for learning or strategy testing.
Paper Wallet
A paper wallet is a physical document containing a cryptocurrency’s private key or seed phrase.
Parachain
Parachains are application-specific blockchains that run in parallel within the Polkadot ecosystem, sharing its security.
Participation Node
A participation node is a key component in Algorand’s Pure Proof of Stake (PPoS) consensus mechanism, helping validate transactions.
Passive Income
Passive income refers to earnings generated from investments that require minimal active involvement.
Password Manager
A password manager is a tool or software that securely stores and organizes passwords for various online accounts and services.
Peer-to-Peer (P2P)
P2P refers to decentralized interactions between parties in a distributed network, where tasks or workloads are divided among peers.
Peer-to-Peer (P2P) Lending
P2P lending in crypto involves directly lending assets to other users, often secured with collateral, without intermediaries.
Peg
A peg is a fixed exchange rate between two assets, often used in stablecoins.
Pegged Currency
A pegged currency is a cryptocurrency, like a stablecoin, whose value is tied to a real-world asset such as fiat currency.
Permissioned Ledger
A permissioned ledger restricts access to authorized individuals or entities.
Permissionless
A permissionless blockchain allows anyone to participate without requiring prior approval.
Permissionless Market Creation
Permissionless market creation enables anyone to establish financial markets for asset exchange without approval.
Perpetual Contracts
Perpetual contracts are derivatives similar to futures but without an expiration date.
Perpetual Futures
Perpetual futures allow indefinite leverage or hedging of cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin or Ethereum, with no expiration date.
Phishing
Phishing involves fraudulent attempts to obtain sensitive information, such as passwords or financial details, often via fake websites or emails.
Play-to-Earn (Play2Earn)
The play-to-earn model rewards players with cryptocurrency or assets for participating in a game’s ecosystem.
Post-Mine
A post-mine refers to coins created retroactively after a cryptocurrency’s launch but before public mining begins.
Pre-IDO
Pre-IDO denotes token sales conducted before the initial DEX offering (IDO).
Pre-Sale
A pre-sale is the sale of cryptocurrency to select investors before its public launch.
Prediction Market
Prediction markets allow users to trade on the outcome of future events, reflecting crowd confidence in a specific scenario. Popular example of a prediction market is Polymarket.
Price Impact
Price impact measures the difference between the market price and the executed price due to trade size.
Private Blockchain
A private blockchain restricts participation to a single organization or group.
Private Key/Secret Key
A private key is a cryptographic code used to decrypt data and authorize cryptocurrency transactions.
Proof Market
A proof market is a decentralized marketplace for buying and selling cryptographic proofs for data verification.
QR Code
A QR Code is a machine-readable graphical pattern that encodes information, often used for scanning and sharing data quickly.
Quantum Bit (Qubit)
A qubit is the fundamental unit of quantum information, representing both 0 and 1 simultaneously in quantum computing.
Quantum Computing
Quantum computing uses principles of quantum mechanics to perform complex computations far more efficiently than classical computers.
Quorum (Governance)
A quorum is the minimum number of members required to validate and proceed with decisions in governance settings.
Radio Frequency Identification (RFID)
RFID is a technology that uses radio waves to identify tagged objects or individuals passively.
Rage-Quit
Rage-quit refers to a DAO member withdrawing their stake, taking a proportional share of the treasury, and exiting the organization.
Raiden Network
The Raiden Network is an off-chain scaling solution for Ethereum, enabling low-cost, near-instant payments, similar to Bitcoin’s Lightning Network.
Rank
Rank indicates a cryptocurrency’s position based on its market capitalization.
Real-World Assets (RWAs)
Real-World Assets are physical or off-chain assets tokenized for transactions and use in decentralized finance (DeFi).
Rebalancing
Rebalancing is adjusting a portfolio’s composition by buying or selling assets to maintain target allocations.
Rebase
A rebase token automatically adjusts its circulating supply based on price fluctuations to maintain value stability.
Recovery Seed
A recovery seed is a set of randomly generated words used to recover cryptocurrency wallets.
Recursion
Recursion is a process in programming where a function calls itself directly or indirectly in a loop.
Regenerative Economy
A regenerative economy supports sustainable growth, benefiting the environment and society simultaneously.
Regenerative Finance (ReFi)
Regenerative Finance (ReFi) applies blockchain technology to create financial systems that replenish and restore environmental resources.
Regens
Regens are crypto enthusiasts engaged in ReFi projects that prioritize environmental impact.
Regional/Local/Community Currencies
Regional, local, and community currencies are used within specific areas or groups to promote localized economic activity.
Rehypothecation
Rehypothecation is the practice where brokers use clients’ collateralized assets for their purposes.
REKT
REKT is slang for “wrecked,” describing a significant financial loss in trading.
Relay Chain
The Relay Chain is Polkadot’s central chain, coordinating data and security for its parachains.
Relay Nodes
Relay nodes facilitate communication between block-producing nodes and ensure blockchain authenticity.
Repair Miners
Repair miners are proposed Filecoin nodes designed to maintain network integrity by repairing faulty data.
Replay Attack
A replay attack is a network exploit where intercepted data is maliciously retransmitted.
Replicated Ledger
A replicated ledger is a distributed ledger copy shared across all participants in a blockchain network.
Replicated Security (RS)
Replicated Security (RS) allows Cosmos blockchains to share security using the Inter-Blockchain Communication protocol (IBC).
Restaking
Restaking enables proof-of-stake (PoS) validators to reuse staked tokens across other PoS networks for added functionality.
Retargeting
Retargeting adjusts mining difficulty in proof-of-work blockchains like Bitcoin to maintain consistent block times.
Revenue Participation Tokens
Revenue participation tokens involve one token for participation and another for payouts in a two-token system.
Reverse ICO
A reverse ICO is when an established company issues tokens to decentralize its structure.
Ring CT (Confidential Transactions)
RingCT is a privacy feature in Monero that hides transaction amounts.
Ring Miners
Ring miners in the Loopring protocol complete trades by managing order rings.
Ring Signature
A ring signature is a cryptographic method for obscuring the identities of transaction participants.
S&P 500 (Standard and Poor’s 500)
The S&P 500 is a stock market index tracking the performance of 500 leading publicly traded companies in the U.S.
Satoshi (SATS)
A Satoshi is the smallest unit of Bitcoin, equivalent to 0.00000001 BTC.
Satoshi Nakamoto
The pseudonymous creator or group behind Bitcoin and its groundbreaking blockchain technology.
Scaling Problem
The scaling problem refers to a blockchain’s inability to handle a high number of transactions efficiently and affordably.
Scaling Solution
A scaling solution is any method or technology designed to increase a system’s capacity to handle more users and transactions.
Script
A script is a sequence of commands written in a programming language to automate tasks.
Scrypt
Scrypt is a memory-intensive proof-of-work algorithm designed to minimize the efficiency advantage of specialized mining hardware like ASICs.
Second-Layer Solutions
Second-layer solutions operate on top of blockchains to improve scalability and efficiency, examples include Plasma, Lightning Network, and TrueBit.
Secondary Market
A secondary market is a platform where investors trade previously issued assets or securities.
Secure Asset Fund for Users (SAFU)
SAFU is an emergency insurance fund created by Binance to protect user funds in case of unforeseen events.
Secure Element
A secure element is a dedicated hardware chip designed to protect sensitive information and run secure applications.
Secure Multi-Party Computation (sMPC)
sMPC is a cryptographic method enabling multiple parties to compute a function while keeping their inputs private.
Secure Proof of Stake (SPoS)
SPoS is an enhanced proof-of-stake consensus mechanism ensuring improved blockchain security.
Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC)
The SEC is a U.S. federal agency overseeing securities markets, enforcing laws, and protecting investors.
Security
A security is a tradable financial asset representing monetary value, such as stocks, bonds, or digital securities.
Security Token
A security token represents ownership of an asset or equity in a company, offered digitally on the blockchain.
Security Token Offering (STO)
An STO is a regulated fundraising event where tokenized securities are sold to investors.
Seed Funding
Seed funding provides initial capital to startups in exchange for equity or other considerations.
Seed Phrase
A seed phrase is a list of words used to recover access to a cryptocurrency wallet.
Segregated Witness (SegWit)
SegWit is a Bitcoin update that resolved transaction malleability and improved scalability.
Selfish Mining
A scenario where a miner withholds discovered blocks to gain an unfair advantage over the network.
Sell Wall
A sell wall is a large limit order to sell a cryptocurrency at a specific price, often preventing the price from rising further.
Semantic Web
The Semantic Web aims to enable computers to understand and manipulate information on behalf of users.
Series B Funding
Series B funding is the second major round of financing for businesses to expand operations and meet growth demands.
Settlement
The process where a transaction is finalized, and assets are exchanged on a decentralized exchange.
Settlement Layer
A settlement layer serves as the foundation for recording and securing transactions in a blockchain ecosystem.
SHA-256
SHA-256 is a cryptographic hash function integral to Bitcoin’s proof-of-work algorithm.
Shamir’s Secret Sharing
A cryptographic method to split sensitive information, like encryption keys, into multiple parts for secure distribution.
Shanghai Upgrade
The Shanghai Upgrade enables Ethereum users to unstake and withdraw their staked ETH.
Shard
A shard is a subset of a blockchain network, containing specific data to improve scalability.
Shard Chain
A shard chain divides a blockchain network into multiple chains to reduce congestion and enhance transaction speed.
Sharding
Sharding is a scalability solution that partitions blockchain data into smaller, parallel segments.
Shelley Phase
The Shelley Phase is Cardano’s second development era, focused on decentralization, named after poet Percy Shelley.
Shiba Inu Token (SHIB)
The Shiba Inu token (SHIB) is an Ethereum-based decentralized meme cryptocurrency.
Shielded Address
A shielded address conceals transaction details to ensure privacy on the blockchain.
Shielded Transaction
A shielded transaction occurs between two shielded addresses, ensuring all transaction details remain private.
Shilling
The act of promoting a cryptocurrency or project, often for personal gain.
Shitcoin
A cryptocurrency with no discernible value or utility.
SHO (Strong Holder Offering)
A SHO selects investors for token offerings based on their on-chain activity and data analysis.
Short
A short position involves selling a borrowed asset in anticipation of repurchasing it at a lower price for profit.
Short Squeeze
A short squeeze happens when a rapid price increase forces short sellers to buy assets, driving the price higher.
T-Address (Zcash)
T-addresses are transparent addresses in Zcash, offering visibility in transactions for those who prefer transparency.
Taint
Taint measures the percentage of a cryptocurrency in one account that can be traced back to another account.
Take Profit
A take-profit order automatically sells cryptocurrency at a pre-set price to secure profits when a trade is favorable.
Tamper-Proof Ledger
A tamper-proof ledger is a record-keeping system, like blockchain, designed to ensure data integrity and immutability.
Tangle
The Tangle, developed by IOTA, is a blockchain alternative using directed acyclic graphs for quantum-resistant and linear transaction recording.
Tap-to-Earn Crypto Games
Tap-to-earn games let users earn crypto rewards through simple, repetitive actions like tapping on their device screens.
Taproot
Taproot is a Bitcoin soft fork upgrade enhancing privacy and enabling complex transactions more efficiently.
Tardigrade (Storj)
Tardigrade is the decentralized cloud storage service provided by the Storj platform.
Technical Analysis/Trend Analysis (TA)
Technical analysis involves studying market activity, like price and volume, to predict trends and inform investment decisions.
Technical Indicators
Technical indicators are statistical tools that use historical data to forecast price trends or market behavior.
Tendermint
Tendermint is a consensus protocol enabling secure, cross-machine blockchain applications.
Terahashes Per Second
Terahashes per second (Th/s) measures computing power, with one Th/s equaling one trillion hashes calculated per second.
Testnet
The Tangle, developed by IOTA, is a blockchain alternative using directed acyclic graphs for quantum-resistant and linear transaction recording.
The Merge (Ethereum 2.0)
The Merge transitioned Ethereum from proof-of-work to proof-of-stake by combining its mainnet with the Beacon Chain.
Think Long Term (TLT)
TLT is an investment mindset focused on achieving financial goals over months or years rather than short-term gains.
This Is Gentlemen
A phrase originating from a typo of “This is it, gentlemen,” now used to signal good news in crypto communities.
Throughput
Throughput measures the number of actions a system can complete within a specific timeframe.
Ticker
A ticker is a short abbreviation identifying cryptocurrencies on trading platforms, like BTC for Bitcoin.
Ticker Symbol
A unique identifier for cryptocurrencies or stocks, helping users track them across exchanges.
Time-Weighted Automated Market Maker (TWAMM)
TWAMM facilitates large orders by reducing slippage and gas fees while minimizing price impact.
Time-Weighted Average Price (TWAP)
TWAP calculates an asset’s average price over time, helping traders gauge consistent pricing trends.
Timelock/Locktime
A timelock enforces a condition for processing a transaction only after a specific time or block is reached.
Timestamp
A timestamp records the exact time a blockchain transaction occurs.
Tipset
A tipset is a group of blocks on a blockchain, offering an alternative to linear chains.
Token
A token is a digital unit with specific functionality, often representing value or utility in a blockchain ecosystem.
Token Economy
A token economy eliminates intermediaries, using blockchain technology for seamless goods and services exchange.
Token Generation Event (TGE)
A TGE marks the issuance of a cryptocurrency token, often tied to its introduction into the market.
Token Issuance
The process of creating and adding new tokens to a cryptocurrency’s total supply.
Token Lockup
A token lockup is a period during which certain cryptocurrency tokens cannot be traded or transferred.
Token Migration
Token migration transfers tokens from one blockchain to another during platform upgrades or transitions.
Token Sale
A token sale offers cryptocurrency tokens to a select group of investors before their public release.
Token Standard
Standards like Ethereum’s ERC define rules for creating and operating cryptocurrency tokens.
Token Swap
A token swap involves directly exchanging one cryptocurrency token for another, often across blockchains or platforms.
Tokenization
Tokenization converts real-world assets into digital tokens for use in blockchain-based systems.
Tokenized Carbon Credits
Digital representations of carbon credits used to offset environmental impact, with each token representing one metric ton of carbon reduced.
Tokenized Identity
Tokenized identity assigns a digital token to represent user identity, enabling secure, interoperable verification across platforms.
Tokenized Securities
Tokenized securities digitize ownership of traditional assets like stocks or bonds through blockchain tokens.
Tokenomics
The study and design of a cryptocurrency’s economic structure, including supply, distribution, and incentives.
Toll Bridge
A toll bridge is a smart contract feature requiring a fee to access certain blockchain functionalities.
Tor
Tor is a decentralized network enabling anonymous web browsing by encrypting and relaying user traffic.
Total Exchange Volume
The total value traded across one or multiple exchanges.
Total Supply
The total number of coins currently in existence, excluding burned coins.
Total Value Locked (TVL)
TVL represents the total assets staked or locked in a decentralized protocol.
Uncle Block (Ommer Block)
A discarded block when two are created simultaneously, leaving one out of the blockchain.
Unconfirmed
A transaction not yet added to the blockchain.
UNI Token
Governance token of Uniswap, the leading decentralized exchange.
Unit of Account
A standard measure to record and track financial transactions.
United States House Committee on Financial Services
A U.S. government committee overseeing financial and housing services.
Unpermissioned Ledger
A public ledger anyone can access without centralized control.
Unrealized Profit & Loss
Gains or losses from an open position that hasn’t been sold or closed.
Unregulated
Not governed or controlled by any central authority.
Unspent Transaction Output (UTXO)
Unspent “change” left after a blockchain transaction.
Unstoppable Domains
A company offering blockchain-based domain names.
UTC Time
Coordinated Universal Time, the global standard for timekeeping.
Utility Mining
A token distribution model rewarding active participation in a blockchain.
Utility Token
Tokens designed to enable the use of a product or service.
Validator
A proof-of-stake blockchain participant who verifies blocks for rewards.
Vanity Address
A customized cryptocurrency address with chosen characters.
Vaporware
A crypto project announced but never developed.
Vesting Period
A set time during which tokens cannot be sold.
Virgin Bitcoin
Bitcoin that has never been used in a transaction.
Virtual Automated Market Makers (vAMMs)
Synthetic systems providing liquidity for blockchain-based derivatives trading.
Virtual Commodity Association (VCA)
A non-profit promoting self-regulation in the U.S. crypto industry.
Virtual Private Network (VPN)
A secure connection ensuring online privacy and anonymity.
Virtual Reality (VR)
Tech creating immersive, simulated environments.
Virus
Malware that spreads through infected files or programs.
Vitalik Buterin
Co-creator of Ethereum, the second-largest cryptocurrency.
Volatility
The degree of price variation in a market or asset.
Volume
The amount of cryptocurrency traded in a specific time frame.
WAGMI
“We’re All Gonna Make It” – a crypto phrase symbolizing optimism and unity.
Wallet
A tool to store, send, and receive cryptocurrencies.
Wallstreetbets (WSB)
A subreddit discussing stock and options trading.
WannaCry Ransomware
A fast-spreading ransomware targeting computer networks.
Wasabi Wallet
A privacy-focused Bitcoin wallet for multiple operating systems.
Wash Trade
A manipulative practice of buying and selling the same asset to inflate activity.
Watchdog Organization
A group monitoring entities or governments for public accountability.
Watcher (OMG Foundation)
A computer ensuring correct transaction confirmations on the OMG Network.
Watchlist
A custom list to track selected cryptocurrencies.
Weak Hands
Investors who sell quickly during price drops.
Web 1.0
The early, static version of the internet.
Web 2.0
The current internet era of user-generated content and interactivity.
Web 3.0
The next internet phase with decentralized and blockchain technologies.
Web3 Foundation
An organization supporting decentralized web technologies.
WebSocket
A protocol enabling two-way communication between users and servers.
Wei
The smallest unit of Ether, equal to 1/10^18 Ether.
Whale
A computer ensuring correct transaction confirmations on the OMG Network.
When Lambo
A phrase asking when crypto gains will make luxury purchases possible.
When Moon
A phrase speculating on when a crypto’s price will skyrocket.
White Hat Computer Hacker
A hacker who exposes vulnerabilities to improve security.
White Label
Rebranded products sold by a company as its own.
White Label Staking
Staking nodes managed by third parties on behalf of token holders.
White Swan Event
A predictable event based on current trends and data.
Whitelist
A list of people registered for an initial coin offering.
Whitepaper
A document outlining a crypto project’s details and roadmap.
Winding Down
Unwrapping tokens back to their original form in DeFi.
Winding Up
Wrapping tokens across projects to maximize returns in DeFi.
x86 Virtual Machine (Qtum)
Lets Qtum developers write smart contracts in any programming language.
XBT
A lesser-known ticker symbol for Bitcoin.
Yield Curve
A graph showing the relationship between bond yields and their maturity dates.
Yield Farming
How much a bond’s price changes with interest rate fluctuations.
YTD
Short for “Year to Date.”
Zero Confirmation Transaction
Another term for an unconfirmed blockchain transaction.
Zero Knowledge Proof
Proving something is true without sharing the actual details.
Zero Knowledge Rollup
A Layer 2 solution using zero-knowledge cryptography for faster, cheaper blockchain transactions.
Zk-SNARKs
Proofs allowing someone to verify data without revealing the data itself.
zkApps
Applications using zero-knowledge proofs like zk-SNARKs and zk-STARKs for advanced blockchain use cases.
zkOracle
A trustless system using zero-knowledge proofs to securely and privately transfer data.
zkSharding
A blockchain scaling method combining sharding and zkEVM proofs for faster execution.
zParachain
A dedicated Polkadot blockchain for connecting to external networks.