Account
A record identified by a public address. Different account types can store data, identify an owner, or participate in application interactions.
Language matters
Solana terminology compendium
A glossary for readers who want definitions before opinions. Each entry is intentionally brief and should be read alongside current technical documentation.
Blockhash
A recent network reference used in transaction processing. Its role is tied to freshness and the period in which a transaction can be considered current.
Program
Code deployed to the network that can be invoked by transactions. The term is commonly used for what other ecosystems may call a smart contract.
Slot
A unit in the network's sequence of proposed processing opportunities. A slot is not identical to a user-facing confirmation or a block.
Validator
An operator running network software and participating in the process that helps maintain a shared record. Operation involves technical and infrastructure responsibilities.
Transaction
A signed request that describes one or more instructions for processing. Its status should be checked in an appropriate explorer or application.
How to use the glossary
- Read the definition without assuming two similar terms are interchangeable.
- Open the referenced documentation for version-specific behavior.
- Record the date when a definition matters to your research.
Good terminology reduces confusion; it does not remove complexity.