bitcoin

American  

[bit-koin] / ˈbɪtˌkɔɪn /

noun

1. Often Bitcoin the first widely established cryptocurrency, which uses state-of-the-art cryptography, can be issued in any fractional denomination, and has a decentralized distribution system.

   Increasing numbers of stores and online businesses accept Bitcoin.

2. a single unit of bitcoin, the first widely established cryptocurrency.

   The value of a bitcoin has sometimes surpassed the value of an ounce of gold.

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Usage

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

Etymology

Origin of bitcoin

First recorded in 2005–10; bit ³ ( def. ) + coin

Example Sentences

The opportunities in stock and bond trading are vast for firms such as Coinbase, which says it wants to become an “everything exchange” where investors trade traditional stocks in addition to Bitcoin and crypto tokens.

From Barron's

Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies fell Tuesday despite stock futures rising as digital assets struggled to find their place in volatile wartime markets.

From Barron's

The price of Bitcoin is up around 1% since the conflict began but after initially spiking to around $75,000 two weeks into the war, it has dropped more than 11% since.

From Barron's

Strategy Inc., the largest corporate holder of Bitcoin, may be grappling with the same question.

From Barron's

Then in the week beginning March 16 it bought $77 million worth of Bitcoin.

From Barron's