A Beginner's Guide to Crypto Terminology

The world of cryptocurrency is full of unique jargon and acronyms that can be confusing for newcomers. To help you navigate this exciting and rapidly evolving space, we've put together a glossary of some of the most commonly used terms. Whether you're a seasoned trader or just starting out, this guide will help you understand the language of crypto.

Jumping into a crypto investment with little to no research.

Any cryptocurrency that isn’t Bitcoin. Examples include Ethereum, Ripple, and Litecoin.

Someone holding a large amount of a coin, especially if its value has plummeted. This term often implies that the holder is stuck with a devalued asset.

A person who believes a specific cryptocurrency (like Bitcoin or Ethereum) is the only cryptocurrency worth investing in. They often dismiss the potential of other coins.

A prolonged period of stagnant or declining market prices in the cryptocurrency world. This term reflects a bearish market phase.

Decentralized Finance - financial services that operate without a central authority, leveraging blockchain technology to provide financial instruments.

Holding an investment despite potential losses or volatility, believing in its eventual profit. It's a term that conveys strong conviction and resilience.

Do Your Own Research - a disclaimer advising investors to research before investing. This is crucial in the volatile and sometimes speculative world of crypto.

Government-issued currency, not backed by a physical commodity like gold or silver. Examples include the US dollar, Euro, and Yen.

Fear Of Missing Out - the anxiety that an exciting or interesting event is currently happening elsewhere, often aroused by posts seen on social media. In crypto, it refers to the fear of missing out on potential profits.

Fear, Uncertainty, Doubt - spreading negativity or doubt without basis to manipulate the market. It's often used to describe attempts to sway market sentiment negatively.

Transaction fees on a blockchain, particularly Ethereum. These fees compensate miners for the computational work required to process and validate transactions.

Originally a misspelling of “hold,” now a term for holding a cryptocurrency long-term rather than selling it. The origins stem from an OG Bitcoin forum, BitcoinTalk.

Initial Coin Offering - a fundraising mechanism for new projects, similar to an initial public offering in the stock market. Investors can purchase tokens from a new project, often at a discount.

A person who quickly sells when the market gets rough. The term originates from the Indian name “Pajeet” and implies panic selling.

Short for Lamborghini, symbolizing the ultimate crypto success fantasy. When someone asks, "When Lambo?" they are inquiring about when the investment will make them rich enough to afford a luxury car.

The ease with which a cryptocurrency can be bought and sold without affecting its price. High liquidity means transactions can be made quickly and with minimal price impact.

Shortened form of a maximalist, especially referring to proponents of a specific cryptocurrency.

A dramatic rise in a cryptocurrency’s price. When a coin is "mooning," it's experiencing a significant surge in value.

Not Gonna Make It - pessimism about the future success of a project or individual in the crypto space.

Non-Fungible Token - a unique digital item such as art, collectibles, or in-game items. Each NFT is one-of-a-kind and can be bought, sold, and traded.

Selling off cryptocurrencies at the first sign of a price drop, opposite of diamond hands. This term implies a lack of confidence and resilience.

A scam where developers abandon a project and run away with investors’ funds. It's a significant risk in the relatively unregulated crypto market.

The pseudonymous creator(s) of Bitcoin. Despite many theories, the true identity of Satoshi Nakamoto remains unknown.

Promoting a crypto project for personal gain. Often, shilling is done with a hidden agenda to boost the price for personal profit.

A cryptocurrency pegged to a stable asset, like the US dollar, to minimize price volatility. Examples include Tether (USDT) and USD Coin (USDC).

The economics of a cryptocurrency, including supply, distribution, and how it can be used. Understanding tokenomics is crucial for evaluating a crypto project's potential.

We’re All Gonna Make It; communal optimism in the crypto community. It reflects a positive outlook on the future of the cryptocurrency market.

An investor with a large amount of cryptocurrency, capable of moving the market. Whales' buying or selling actions can significantly impact prices.

Earning interest or rewards by locking up cryptocurrencies, often in DeFi applications. Yield farming can provide attractive returns but also carries significant risks.

Understanding these terms is a great first step in becoming more confident and knowledgeable about the cryptocurrency market. As always, remember to DYOR (Do Your Own Research) before making any investment decisions!