Timechain

A “timechain” is another name for what most people call a blockchain—the foundational system behind Bitcoin and similar digital currencies. It’s a linked sequence of blocks, each containing grouped transactions, arranged strictly in the order they occur. Each new block connects to the one before it, creating a permanent, tamper-resistant record.

While “blockchain” has become the industry standard term, it highlights the structure (blocks linked together). The term “timechain,” on the other hand, draws attention to the chronological, step-by-step recording of events—a key aspect of how these systems work.

Interestingly, the term “timechain” appeared in early versions of Bitcoin’s code written by its pseudonymous creator, Satoshi Nakamoto. Some prefer this original term, viewing it as a tribute to Satoshi’s intent and a reminder of Bitcoin’s roots, especially as “blockchain” is now broadly used for many unrelated technologies and trends.