Blockchain

noun (also attributive, as in "blockchain technology")

/ˈblɒkˌtʃeɪn/

A decentralised, distributed digital ledger that records transactions across multiple computers in a tamper-proof and transparent manner, secured through cryptographic hashing.

✍️ Usage in a UPSC answer

By migrating land titles and procurement records onto a blockchain, the state can render bureaucratic transactions transparent and immutable, thereby curbing corruption and rebuilding citizens' trust in public institutions.

Synonyms

distributed ledgerdistributed ledger technologydecentralised ledgerdigital ledgercryptographic ledgerchain of blocks

Antonyms

centralised ledgercentralised databasesingle-point registerpaper ledger

🌱 Word Family

blockchain (n), blockchains (n pl), blockchain-based (adj compound), on-chain (adj/adv)

🔡 Root

Coined/Modern: English block + chain; compound coined c. 2015, terms used separately in Nakamoto's 2008 Bitcoin whitepaper

📜 Etymology

Coined from block + chain; Satoshi Nakamoto used the terms separately in the 2008 Bitcoin whitepaper, and the compound "blockchain" became standard by 2015 as the technology gained mainstream adoption.

🧠 Memory Hook

Picture data sealed in BLOCKS, each padlocked to the next in an unbreakable CHAIN - tamper with one link and the whole chain snaps, so the record stays honest.

📝 Seen in UPSC Question Papers

Prelims 2020 — IT & Cyber

Real UPSC previous-year questions whose text uses “Blockchain” — proof this word earns its place on your list.

🔬 Science & Technology 📖 Seen in: Emerging Technologies — AI, Quantum Co...

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