1. Blockchain
Blockchain is the technology behind cryptocurrencies. It is a decentralized digital ledger that records all transactions in a transparent and immutable way. Each block contains a set of transactions and is connected to the previous block, forming a chain (hence the name "blockchain").
2. Cryptocurrency
A cryptocurrency is a digital or virtual currency that uses cryptography to ensure secure transactions. Popular examples include Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and Binance Coin (BNB).
3. Wallet
A digital wallet is a software or physical device used to store private and public keys, which allow you to send and receive cryptocurrencies. There are hot wallets (connected to the internet) and cold wallets (offline, such as hardware wallets).
4. Bitcoin (BTC)
The first and best-known cryptocurrency, created in 2009 by an individual or group under the pseudonym Satoshi Nakamoto. Bitcoin is often referred to as "digital gold" due to its limited supply and increasing value.
5. Altcoin
Any cryptocurrency other than Bitcoin. Examples include Ethereum, Cardano (ADA), and Solana (SOL).
6. Token
A token is a digital asset created on an existing blockchain, such as Ethereum. It can represent a variety of things, such as a currency, an asset, or even a right of use.
7. Exchange
Platforms where you can buy, sell, and trade cryptocurrencies. Popular exchanges include Binance, Coinbase, and Kraken.
8. Private Key and Public Key
Public Key: An address used to receive cryptocurrency. It can be shared without any worries.
Private Key: A password that gives full access to your wallet. It should be kept secret, as whoever has it can control your funds.
9. Mining
The process of validating transactions and adding new blocks to the blockchain. Miners use powerful computers to solve complex mathematical problems and are rewarded with cryptocurrency.
10. Proof of Work (PoW) e Proof of Stake (PoS)
PoW: A consensus mechanism that requires miners to solve computational problems to validate transactions (used by Bitcoin).
PoS: A model where validators are chosen based on the amount of coins they hold and are willing to "lock up" as collateral (used by Ethereum 2.0).
11. HODL
A popular term in the crypto community that means “Hold On for Dear Life.” It refers to the strategy of holding cryptocurrencies for the long term, regardless of price fluctuations.
12. FOMO (Fear of Missing Out)
The fear of missing out on an investment opportunity, which often leads to impulsive decisions in the market.
13. Whale
An investor or entity that owns a significant amount of a cryptocurrency and can influence prices with their transactions.
14. DeFi (Decentralized Finance)
An ecosystem of financial applications built on blockchain, enabling lending, trading and other services without intermediaries such as banks.
15. NFT (Non-Fungible Token)
A type of token that represents ownership of a unique item, such as digital art, music, or collectibles. Each NFT is unique and cannot be directly exchanged for another.