altcoin
n. countablen. any cryptocurrency other than Bitcoin. These digital coins often try to improve on Bitcoin's technology or offer different features.
n. any digital currency or cryptographic token other than Bitcoin. Often developed as alternatives to Bitcoin, these assets frequently aim to address perceived limitations in transaction speed, scalability, or utility.
Many investors buy altcoins hoping for high returns.
While Bitcoin remains the dominant market leader, the rise of various altcoins has introduced new possibilities for decentralised finance and smart contracts.
The volatility inherent in the altcoin market often leads to rapid capital rotation, as traders seek to capitalise on the speculative potential of emerging blockchain projects.
A blend of alternative and coin: any cryptocurrency offered as an alternative to Bitcoin.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Last updated July 19, 2026