blockchain

American  

[blok-cheyn] / ˈblɒkˌtʃeɪn /

noun

Computers.

1. a structure used for a distributed or shared database consisting of discrete blocks of data, with each new block secured and connected to earlier ones by cryptography: used to create digital ledgers for cryptocurrency systems, among other things.

   Several schools now offer courses in the technology behind blockchain.

   Under the scheme, farmers would add information about their produce to a blockchain database that could quickly pinpoint contamination.

2. a distributed or shared database created and populated using a structure consisting of discrete blocks of data, with each new block secured and connected to earlier ones by cryptography.

   Once the transaction gets verified, it's recorded in the blockchain.

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Etymology

Origin of blockchain

First recorded in 2010–15; block ( def. ) + chain ( def. )

Example Sentences

Making matters worse, the bitcoin community is usually relatively slow to make changes to the blockchain, Tam at BTQ Technologies noted.

From MarketWatch

Crypto firms seek 24/7 blockchain stock trading, but the SEC’s exemption is expected to be incremental, a “proof of concept”.

From Barron's

This is because Polymarket uses blockchain technology that allows users to place bets anonymously.

From Salon

Securitize will become NYSE’s first digital transfer agent, which allows it to create shares for stocks and exchange-traded funds as digital tokens on a blockchain, the distributed ledger technology behind bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies.

From The Wall Street Journal

Subscriptions and services revenue, which includes custodial fees and staking—locking up assets for a fee to verify blockchain transactions—exceeded transaction revenue for the first quarter ever.

From Barron's