# Proof of Work

idiom · CEFR C1

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

## Meaning

A consensus method in which miners solve computational puzzles to validate transactions.

## Examples

- Bitcoin uses Proof of Work.
- Under Proof of Work, miners race to solve a puzzle, and the winner adds the next block.
- Critics argue that Proof of Work wastes enormous amounts of electricity, since thousands of machines compete to solve the same puzzle and only one is rewarded.

## Origin

Named because the network requires demonstrable computational work. (disputed)

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