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

Bitcoin traded at $69,922, down 0.7% in 24 hours, as investors monitored Middle East news and awaited U.S. inflation data.

From Barron's

—Bitcoin fell 0.8% to $69,660, back below the key $70,000 level as uncertainty over the Iran war keeps investors cautious over risky assets.

From The Wall Street Journal

Stabilizing market conditions would be good news for risk-on assets such as Bitcoin.

From Barron's

Stabilizing market conditions, evidenced by the S&P 500’s 0.8% rise, benefited risk-on assets like Bitcoin.

From Barron's

—Bitcoin found some stability above the $70,000 mark as risk sentiment recovered, putting $73,000-$74,000 as the key resistance level to watch.

From The Wall Street Journal