bitcoin
/ˈbɪtkɔɪn
/noun [mass noun]
1A type of digital currency in which encryption techniques are used to regulate the generation of units of currency and verify the transfer of funds, operating independently of a central bank: bitcoin has become a hot commodity among speculators If you want to buy something using bitcoin you need to make sure the seller accepts the cryptocurrency...
- In October 2010, the price of bitcoin used to be 0.90.
- I paid for my domain in bitcoin.
- For example, if bitcoin becomes successful, the way anarchists and hackers like it, it will extremely hard to centralize money ever again.
1.1 [count noun] A unit of bitcoin: bitcoins can be used for online transactions between individuals...
- I've never purchased anything illegal with bitcoins.
- The transaction may take a few days to complete, but you'll receive a notification when the Bitcoins have been safely transferred to your wallet.
- As prices go up, people who currently hold Bitcoins develop greater and greater expectations for the currency.
Origin
Early 21st century: from bit4 + coin.