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Ethereum Glossary of Terms

Ethereum

Ethereum is a decentralized blockchain platform that enables the creation and execution of smart contracts and decentralized applications (dApps), powered by its native cryptocurrency, Ether (ETH).

ETH

$ETH, or Ether, is the native cryptocurrency of the Ethereum blockchain. It is used as both a form of currency and as "gas" to pay for transactions and computational tasks on the Ethereum network.

Wallet

A wallet in the context of blockchain and cryptocurrencies is a digital tool that allows users to securely store, send, receive, and manage their digital assets like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other cryptocurrencies.

Blockchain

A blockchain is a decentralized, tamper-resistant database or digital ledger that records data across multiple computers (nodes) connected by the internet network, providing security, transparency, and immutability.

Smart Contracts

Smart contracts are self-executing software programs on a blockchain that automate actions when predefined conditions are met. They manage and transfer native blockchain assets without intermediaries.

ERC20

ERC-20 is a smart contract and technical standard name for creating tokens or coins on the Ethereum blockchain that has specific characteristics. It provides a set of rules that allow developers to create and interact with fungible tokens that are interoperable across different platforms and services.

NFT (Non-Fungible Token)

An NFT (Non-Fungible Token) is a unique digital asset that represents ownership of a specific item or piece of content on the blockchain. Unlike cryptocurrencies, which are fungible and identical, NFTs are non-fungible, meaning each token is unique and cannot be exchanged one-to-one with another.

Web3

Web3 is a new version of the Internet that allows users to own and control their digital assets, identity, and data. It leverages blockchain technology to create a decentralized ecosystem where users can seamlessly interact with various applications while maintaining control over their personal information.

EVM (Ethereum Virtual Machine)

The EVM (Ethereum Virtual Machine) is the runtime environment for executing smart contracts on the Ethereum blockchain. It acts as the decentralized computer that developers interact with when creating and deploying smart contracts, ensuring that code runs exactly as intended across all nodes in the network.

dApp (Decentralized Application)

A dApp (decentralized application) is a software application that runs on a blockchain network, rather than a centralized server. dApps use smart contracts to execute functions without relying on a centralized authority, providing transparency, security, and user control.

DeFi (Decentralized Finance)

DeFi (Decentralized Finance) is a blockchain-based form of finance that removes intermediaries like banks, allowing individuals to access financial services, such as lending, borrowing, and trading, in a decentralized and permissionless manner using smart contracts.

DEX (Decentralized Exchange)

A decentralized exchange (DEX) is a type of cryptocurrency exchange that allows users to trade assets directly with each other without relying on a central authority. DEXs operate on blockchain networks using smart contracts to facilitate trades in a peer-to-peer and trust-less manner.

Fiat Currency

Fiat currency is a type of currency that has no intrinsic value and is not backed by a physical commodity like gold. Its value comes from the trust and faith that people and governments have in it, allowing it to function as a medium of exchange.

Layer 2 (L2)

A Layer 2 (L2) is a scaling solution built on top of an existing blockchain (Layer 1), such as Ethereum, to improve transaction speed, reduce fees, and increase scalability without compromising the security of the base layer.

Ethereum Foundation

The Ethereum Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting the development, growth, and sustainability of the Ethereum ecosystem. It provides funding, coordination, and resources to projects and teams working on Ethereum's core technology and community development.

Self Custody

Self custody is the act of personally managing and holding your own digital assets, such as cryptocurrencies, without relying on a third party like a bank or exchange. It gives users complete control and ownership of their assets through the use of private keys.

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