Glossary

Address

Plain-language definition Crypto glossary

Key takeaways

A crypto address is a string of letters and numbers that identifies a destination on a blockchain, much like an account number you share to receive funds.
An address is derived from a public key, and only the holder of the matching private key can authorise spending from it, so sharing an address never exposes your secret key.
Because blockchain transactions are irreversible and most networks use their own address format, sending to a wrong, mistyped, or wrong-chain address usually means the funds are lost.

Definition

A crypto address is a string of letters and numbers that identifies a destination on a blockchain — the equivalent of an account number you share to receive funds.

How it works

An address is derived from a public key, which is itself derived from a private key held in your wallet. Anyone can send assets to an address, but only the holder of the matching private key can authorise spending from it. Most networks use their own address format, so an address valid on one chain is not usable on another.

Why it matters

Addresses make it possible to receive funds without revealing your private key. Because transactions are irreversible, sending to a wrong or mistyped address usually means the funds are lost, which is why wallets show full addresses and often a QR code to copy exactly.

Example

To receive a coin, you share your public address; the sender pastes it as the destination of their transaction.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Is it safe to share my crypto address publicly?

Yes, an address is meant to be shared so others can send you funds. It is derived from your public key and reveals no secret information, and only the matching private key can authorise spending. The main privacy caveat is that anyone can view the address's transaction history on a public blockchain.

What happens if I send crypto to the wrong address?

Blockchain transactions are generally irreversible, so funds sent to a wrong or mistyped address are usually lost with no way to recover them. This is why wallets display full addresses and often offer a QR code to copy them exactly. Always double-check the address and the network before sending.

Can I use the same address on different blockchains?

Usually not. Most networks use their own address format, so an address valid on one chain is generally not usable on another. Sending assets to an address on the wrong network can result in permanent loss, so confirm the chain matches before transacting.