crypto

¹

[ krip-toh ]

noun

, plural cryp·tos.

1. a person who secretly supports or adheres to a group, party, or belief.
2. cryptocurrency ( def ).
3. cryptography ( def ).

adjective

1. secret or hidden; not publicly admitted:

   a crypto Nazi.

crypto-

²

1. a combining form meaning “hidden,” “secret,” used in the formation of compound words:

   cryptograph.

crypto-

combining_form

1. secret, hidden, or concealed

   cryptography

   crypto-fascist

Word History and Origins

Origin of crypto¹

First recorded in 1945–50; probably independent use of crypto-; -o

Origin of crypto²

Combining form representing Greek kryptós hidden. See crypt

Word History and Origins

Origin of crypto¹

New Latin, from Greek kruptos hidden, from kruptein to hide

Example Sentences

Securities and Exchange Commission Chair Gary Gensler plans to resign on Jan. 20, a decision that paves the way for President-elect Donald Trump to reshape the agency into a more favorable environment for crypto and Wall Street.

From Salon

Crypto corporations emerged as a major player in the 2024 election, pouring over $119 million into candidates' coffers — accounting for 44% of all corporate political spending, according to data compiled by nonprofit watchdog Public Citizen.

From Salon

Trump has promised to make the U.S. the "crypto capital of the planet."

From Salon

But industry watchers have raised questions about who will keep crypto donors in check and consumers safe.

From Salon

Crypto's resurgence comes two years after an industry-wide collapse resulted in failed exchanges and massive fraud at FTX.

From Salon