cryptocurrency

noun

cryp·​to·​cur·​ren·​cy ˌkrip-tō-ˈkər-ən(t)-sē 

-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

After a few volatile years, the OG cryptocurrency, Bitcoin, is still a favorite, with an unwavering, loyal following. —Jon Stojan, Detroit Free Press, 12 June 2024

Contributor Story by Binance The recent trajectory of Solana (CRYPTO: SOL) in the cryptocurrency market has been nothing short of spectacular. —Tyler Shepherd, The Courier-Journal, 12 June 2024

Bitcoin is on its way to reaching its all-time high Bitcoin was trading above $71,000 on Wednesday as investors continued to pour into spot Bitcoin ETFs, making Wednesday the best day for the cryptocurrency since March. —Vinamrata Chaturvedi, Quartz, 5 June 2024

Besides properties accumulated in the city-state, Thailand, Dubai and the U.S., authorities are also seeking to seize cryptocurrency, watches and luxury cars. —Bernadette Toh, TIME, 31 May 2024

Word History

Etymology

crypto- + currency

First Known Use

2009, in the meaning defined above

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