Glossary · from the DESK dictionary
Altcoin
An umbrella term for any cryptocurrency other than Bitcoin.
In plain words
Bitcoin was the first cryptocurrency — everything that came after is called an 'alternative coin'.
Example
Ethereum, Solana, and thousands of other cryptocurrencies are all considered altcoins.
What it means for traders
A fundamental term for categorizing the crypto market.
Common pitfalls
Altcoins are generally considered more volatile and riskier than Bitcoin, often with lower liquidity.
Related terms
Token
From the DESK dictionary. For information only, not investment advice.
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DESK is a research tool and not investment advice. Page generated: 2026-10-12.