blockchain
Americannoun
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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.
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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.
Etymology
Origin of blockchain
First recorded in 2010–15; block ( def. ) + chain ( def. )
Explanation
A blockchain is a shared computer database that's mainly used for keeping records of cryptocurrency transactions. When someone buys or sells Bitcoin, they use a blockchain to safely record the details. A blockchain works like a shared spreadsheet, with data entered into separate cells or columns. The special thing about blockchain is that once information is put into each block, it can't be changed, making it an extremely secure way to store data. The name blockchain comes from the blocks of data, linked together in chains through cryptography.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
As for users of Solana, Chee sees the blockchain network reach hitting 1 billion monthly active users within five years.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 1, 2026
Morgan promises to bring a real-time reporting system that would use blockchain technology and artificial intelligence, allowing the public to review the price and recipients of contracts and highlight any conflicts of interests.
From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 1, 2026
Citigroup’s institutional clients will be able to accept payments in stablecoin, which Coinbase’s blockchain will convert to government-issued currency.
From Barron's ● Sep. 28, 2026
Instead, crypto exists on the blockchain, a kind of shared spreadsheet that anonymously records every transaction, and is “mined” digitally through the solving of complex math problems.
From Slate ● Sep. 20, 2026
A mystery user earned about $22,000 placing bets on the quarterly earnings of companies such as Wells Fargo, the Home Depot and DoorDash, according to an analysis from Bubblemaps, a blockchain forensics firm.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 11, 2026
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
