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

Strategy cut its outlook and sold shares to establish a $1.44 billion U.S. dollar reserve as the company contends with a recent slide in Bitcoin prices.

From The Wall Street Journal

The bitcoin treasury company on Monday said it now expects to report between a loss of $5.5 billion and profit of $6.3 billion for the year, or between a loss of $17 and a profit of $19 on a per-share basis.

From The Wall Street Journal

The lowered view is tied to the drop in Bitcoin prices.

From The Wall Street Journal

Since then, Bitcoin has dropped from $111,612 as of Oct.

From The Wall Street Journal

Crypto-linked stocks broadly slid following another selloff in Bitcoin, which fell 6.9% over the past 24 hours to $85,006, a retreat below $90,000.

From Barron's