Ethereum
A blockchain designed to run programs — smart contracts — as well as move value. It moved from proof of work to proof of stake in 2022, and most DeFi and token activity has been built on it or on networks compatible with it.
Also called ETH
A blockchain designed to run programs — smart contracts — as well as move value. It moved from proof of work to proof of stake in 2022, and most DeFi and token activity has been built on it or on networks compatible with it.
Why it matters
Its transaction fees are paid in ETH and rise with demand for block space.
Related terms
- Smart Contract
- Gas Fee
- Proof of Stake
Keep reading
Liquidity Pool
A pot of two or more tokens locked in a contract that traders swap…
Self-Custody
Holding your own keys rather than leaving assets with an exchange or custodian.
Whale
A holder large enough that their transactions can move a market on their own.
Proof of Work
A consensus method in which participants compete to solve a computational puzzle to add…
Smart Contract
A program stored on a blockchain that runs automatically when its conditions are met,…
Exchange
A venue for trading assets. A centralised exchange holds customer funds and matches orders…