# Proof of Stake

idiom · CEFR C1

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/proof-of-stake
Updated: 2026-07-19

## Meaning

A consensus method in which validators stake coins as collateral instead of mining.

## Examples

- Ethereum switched to Proof of Stake.
- Under Proof of Stake, validators lock up coins as a deposit instead of running power-hungry miners.
- Proof of Stake replaces raw computation with financial risk: a validator who tries to cheat can have their staked coins destroyed, a penalty known as slashing.

## Origin

Stake means committing assets as collateral. (disputed)

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.