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

Traders were taking it easy in the last few days of 2025 following a stellar 12 months that have seen tech firms push several stock markets to all-time highs, while bitcoin, gold and silver have also enjoyed multiple peaks.

From Barron's

Bitcoin, which has tumbled since spiking above $126,000 in October, was stabilising just below $90,000 after a shaky end to the year.

From Barron's

Shares of Strategy slumped to their lowest close in more than a year on Monday, as investors were hit with a combination of falling bitcoin prices and another dilutive sale of stock.

From MarketWatch

Investors have given Strategy a bit of a break because the company has used that money to buy bitcoin, but that could be changing.

From MarketWatch

When bitcoin prices were trending higher, investors were happy because Strategy’s stock was also rising.

From MarketWatch