altcoin

[ awlt-koin ]

noun

1. any cryptocurrency that is not bitcoin:

   These five altcoins will be worth watching for the next few months, as they've been steadily rising in value.

Usage Note

What's the difference between altcoin, bitcoin, and cryptocurrency? See digital currency ( def ).

Word History and Origins

Origin of altcoin¹

First recorded in 2010–15; alt- ²( def ) or alt(ernative) ( def ) + coin ( def )