cryptocurrency

American  

[krip-toh-kur-uhn-see, -kuhr-] / ˈkrɪp toʊˌkɜr ən si, -ˌkʌr- /

noun

1. currency that exists only in electronic form, operates on a decentralized system of exchange, and uses advanced cryptography for security, or any individual currency of this type.

   Some expect cryptocurrency to become the dominant means of financing trade between markets.

   This particular cryptocurrency has a huge following among retail traders.

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adjective

1. being or relating to virtual currency that uses advanced cryptography for security.

   They are one of the largest cryptocurrency exchanges on the internet.

   She got caught running a cryptocurrency scam.

Usage

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

Etymology

Origin of cryptocurrency

First recorded in 2005–10; crypto- + currency

Example Sentences

Once an investor owns a stablecoin, he or she is also one step closer to buying other cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, which are typically bought with stablecoins.

From Barron's

Coming unemployment and personal consumption data may guide future Fed policy, potentially impacting cryptocurrency investments.

From Barron's

However, the world’s largest cryptocurrency failed to keep pace Tuesday when tech stocks edged higher.

From Barron's

However, the cryptocurrency’s gains are modest as investors are awaiting more clarity from upcoming U.S. economic data before taking larger directional positions, Saxo Bank analysts say in a note.

From The Wall Street Journal

—Bitcoin edged higher along with other cryptocurrencies after a pause in tech stocks selling.

From The Wall Street Journal