Crypto Glossary | 20 Terms You Need to Know to Get Started

The Crypto Mentor Glossary translates crypto language into normal words. You do not need to memorize everything: use this page as a reference whenever you meet a new term.

Bitcoin (BTC)

The first widely adopted cryptocurrency: a digital monetary network that does not rely on one central authority to validate every transaction.

Blockchain

A shared digital ledger where information is organized into blocks connected to one another.

Wallet

A tool that manages the keys needed to control assets recorded on a blockchain.

Seed phrase

A sequence of words that can restore access to a wallet. Treat it like a master key.

Private key

A private cryptographic key used to authorize actions. It must never be shared.

Exchange

A platform that allows users to buy, sell or exchange digital assets.

CEX

Centralized Exchange: an exchange managed by a central company or organization.

DEX

Decentralized Exchange: a protocol that enables swaps through smart contracts, often by connecting a wallet directly.

Stablecoin

A token designed to maintain a relatively stable value against a reference, often a fiat currency such as the U.S. dollar.

Market cap

Market capitalization: in simple terms, current price multiplied by the number of tokens in circulation.

Supply

The number of units of an asset that exist or are in circulation, depending on the metric being used.

Altcoin

A general term commonly used for cryptocurrencies other than Bitcoin.

Smart contract

A program that runs on a blockchain and applies rules defined in code.

Gas fee

A fee paid to execute a transaction or operation on certain blockchains.

DeFi

Decentralized Finance: financial services built through protocols and smart contracts.

Staking

A mechanism where, on certain networks, assets are used to help participate in the protocol’s security or operation.

Bull market

A period in which the market shows a broad upward trend. It does not mean every asset rises.

Bear market

A period characterized by a broad downward trend and greater caution among market participants.

HODL

A popular crypto expression for holding an asset over time instead of selling it quickly.

DYOR

Do Your Own Research: a reminder to verify information, sources and risks personally before making a decision.

Where to go next

Once these terms start to feel familiar, move on to the “Start from Zero” path, where they are applied in a logical order with practical examples. The glossary will keep growing with new terms and deeper explanations.