cryptocurrency

noun

cryp·​to·​cur·​ren·​cy ˌkrip-tō-ˈkər-ən(t)-sē How to pronounce cryptocurrency (audio)
-ˈkə-rən(t)-sē
plural cryptocurrencies
: any form of currency that only exists digitally, that usually has no central issuing or regulating authority but instead uses a decentralized system to record transactions and manage the issuance of new units, and that relies on cryptography to prevent counterfeiting and fraudulent transactions
Virtual currency bitcoin hit the mainstream in 2014. Bitcoin ATMs started springing up all over the world … , allowing people to exchange cash for the cryptocurrency, a secure digital payment outside of conventional financial institutions.Brenda Poppy

Examples of cryptocurrency in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web The cryptocurrency market features major digital currencies such as Bitcoin and Ethereum, with regulated ETFs now available and offered by marquee asset players. Roomy Khan, Forbes, 28 Oct. 2024 Five of them exchanged cryptocurrency addresses, photos of the substances, and promises of delivery within the hour. Elaine Mallon, Washington Examiner - Political News and Conservative Analysis About Congress, the President, and the Federal Government, 27 Oct. 2024 Global cryptocurrency markets trade 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Alex Harring, CNBC, 25 Oct. 2024 The upcoming vote, scheduled for December 10, is poised to be significant not only for Microsoft but also for the broader cryptocurrency market. Vinamrata Chaturvedi, Quartz, 25 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for cryptocurrency 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'cryptocurrency.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

crypto- + currency

First Known Use

2009, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of cryptocurrency was in 2009

Dictionary Entries Near cryptocurrency

Cite this Entry

“Cryptocurrency.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cryptocurrency. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.

Kids Definition

cryptocurrency

noun
cryp·​to·​cur·​ren·​cy
ˌkrip-tō-ˈkər-ən(t)-sē,
-ˈkə-rən(t)-sē
: any form of currency that only exists digitally, that usually uses a decentralized system for issuing new units and reording transactions, and that relies on cryptography to prevent fraudulent transactions
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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