blockchain
A distributed digital ledger consisting of an unchangeable, chronologically ordered sequence of cryptographically linked data records.
Refers specifically to a peer-to-peer data structure where batches of transactions (blocks) are cryptographically chained together, preventing retrospective alteration.
Word relationships
- ledger: A ledger is any record of financial accounts; a blockchain is a specific cryptographic implementation of a distributed ledger.
- centralized database: A centralized database relies on a single authority to maintain and alter records.
Commonly confused with
- cryptocurrency: Blockchain is the underlying distributed technology, whereas cryptocurrency is a digital medium of exchange built upon it.
Word family
- blockchains (noun): Plural form of blockchain.
Collocations
- blockchain network
- blockchain architecture
- public blockchain
- permissioned blockchain
Idioms & expressions
- on-chain analytics
- blockchain trilemma
Example sentences
- "The blockchain serves as an open, distributed ledger that can record transactions between two parties efficiently and in a verifiable and permanent way." Cryptographic Foundations (Harvard Business Review, 'The Truth About Blockchain' (2017))
- "By recording shipping milestones on a transparent blockchain, logistics companies reduced disputes over damaged goods." Supply Chain Operations
- "Interbank transfers that once took three business days were settled in seconds over a private blockchain network." Financial Settlement
Memory hook
Imagine building blocks linked together by an unbreakable iron chain. Blocks of data chained forever in time.
When not to use
Do not use as a generic synonym for database when referencing traditional, centralized SQL or cloud storage systems.
Fun facts
- The term 'block chain' was originally written as two separate words in Nakamoto's code comments before coalescing into a single word around 2016.
Related words
Explore more words
ledger, immutable, supply chain, chronological, cold-chain, Version Control
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