blockchain

noun

block·​chain ˈbläk-ˌchān 

: a digital database containing information (such as records of financial transactions) that can be simultaneously used and shared within a large decentralized, publicly accessible network

also : the technology used to create such a database

The technology at the heart of bitcoin and other virtual currencies, blockchain is an open, distributed ledger that can record transactions between two parties efficiently and in a verifiable and permanent way.

—Marco Iansiti and Karim R. Lakhani

Examples of blockchain in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Public blockchains rely heavily on cryptographic systems to protect wallets, authorize transactions, secure validator operations, and safeguard digital ownership. — Sean Stein Smith, Forbes.com, 26 June 2026

Regulatory flexibility is also key, as demonstrated by Switzerland’s FINMA fintech sandbox, which allows blockchain and digital asset start-ups to test financial innovations without a formal banking license. — Alois Zwinggi, Time, 24 June 2026

Still, with enough savvy, the troves of data on blockchains become more manageable. — Ben Weiss, Fortune, 23 June 2026

Its approach centers on examining blockchain activity and helping clients understand the available information surrounding their case. — Jon Stojan june 23, Miami Herald, 23 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

2011, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for blockchain

• abstain
• airplane
• alkane
• arcane
• arraign
• attain
• backplane
• betaine
• biplane
• butane
• campaign
• cetane