# crypto

/ˈkɹɪptoʊ/ (US)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/crypto
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. cryptocurrency

noun · CEFR B2 · Informal

digital money like Bitcoin that is not controlled by a central bank.

For teachers: an informal clipping of cryptocurrency, referring to digital or virtual currencies underpinned by cryptographic systems.

- He lost a lot of money when the price of crypto crashed last year.
- The volatility of crypto has led many traditional investors to remain cautious despite the potential for high returns in decentralized finance.

### 2. cryptography

noun · CEFR C1 · Informal · Technical

the study or use of secret codes to protect information.

For teachers: an informal clipping of cryptography, referring to the practice and study of techniques for secure communication.

- She is an expert in crypto and works for a cybersecurity firm.
- Advances in quantum computing pose a significant theoretical threat to current crypto standards used to secure global financial transactions.

### 3. medical infection

noun · CEFR C2 · Informal · Technical

a short name for certain types of germs or the illnesses they cause.

For teachers: an informal clipping for various medical conditions or pathogens, most commonly Cryptosporidium or Cryptococcus.

- The doctor ordered a test to see if the patient had crypto.
- The public health department issued a warning after several cases of crypto were linked to the local swimming complex.

### 4. secret or hidden

adjective · CEFR C1 · Formal

describing someone who keeps their true political or religious beliefs a secret.

For teachers: denoting a person who secretly supports a particular party, doctrine, or religion while appearing to be neutral or opposed.

- The journalist was accused of being a crypto-communist during the election.
- The historian argued that the senator was a crypto-monarchist who sought to undermine democratic institutions from within.

Usage: Often used as a prefix in compound words like 'crypto-fascist'.

## Examples

- He lost a lot of money investing in crypto last year.
- Many younger investors prefer buying crypto over traditional stocks because they hope for faster profits.
- Despite the promise of decentralized finance, the extreme volatility of crypto has led regulators to demand stricter oversight of digital asset exchanges.

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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.