Altcoin
An altcoin is any cryptocurrency that is not bitcoin, however usualyl refers to smaller projects.
Quick Reference:
Alternative Coin. Ethereum, Solana, Cardano, Ripple. Risk Varies.
Expanded Explanation.
When Bitcoin was created, it stood alone. As new projects emerged, the term “altcoin” was used to descrive them. Today, Ethereum, Solana and many others are considered altcoins. They may offer faster transactions, new features or specialised uses like decentralised finance or collectibles. They typically provide an Alternative to Bitcoin in some technical aspect.
For beginners, it is important to know that while some altcoins are innovative, most are far riskier than necessary. Many have failed, but a few have grown into strong ecosystems.