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

“I didn’t know much about stocks and cryptocurrency, but I did know sports,” he said.

From The Wall Street Journal

Securities and Exchange Commission Chairman Paul Atkins in a presentation mostly aimed at showing that the agencies would harmonize their rules to promote cryptocurrency innovation and rationalize margin collateral requirements in securities markets.

From Barron's

That news also seems to have reversed the powerful rise of gold and silver —which, like cryptocurrencies, are favored by some traders as alternatives to the U.S. dollar.

From Barron's

Securities and Exchange Commission Chairman Paul Atkins in a presentation mostly aimed at showing that the agencies would harmonize their rules to promote cryptocurrency innovation and rationalize margin collateral requirements in securities markets.

From Barron's

After a disappointing end to 2025, major cryptocurrencies have languished to start the new year.

From The Wall Street Journal