Approval
Permission granted by a token holder to a smart contract to spend a specified amount of tokens.
BNB Chain glossary
Plain-language definitions for BNB, BSC, opBNB, BEP-20, gas, wallets, validators and other terms used throughout BNB.info.
Direct answer
This glossary defines each term in the context of BNB Chain. A term can have a broader meaning elsewhere, so follow the linked reference when a technical or operational distinction affects a transaction.
Definitions
BEP-20
The common fungible-token interface used on BNB Smart Chain.
BNB
The digital asset used for gas and other functions across the BNB ecosystem.
BNB Chain
The broader ecosystem that includes BNB Smart Chain, opBNB and BNB Greenfield.
BNB Smart Chain (BSC)
The EVM-compatible Layer 1 network used for smart contracts and decentralized applications.
Bridge
A system that transfers or represents assets or messages between blockchain networks, adding cross-chain trust and contract risk.
Chain ID
A numerical identifier used by wallets and applications to distinguish blockchain networks.
Delegator
A holder who stakes assets with a validator rather than producing blocks directly.
EVM
The Ethereum Virtual Machine execution model used by Ethereum-compatible smart-contract networks.
Gas
The fee paid for blockchain computation and storage. On BSC and opBNB it is paid in BNB.
opBNB
A Layer 2 network built on BNB Smart Chain.
Private key
The secret value that authorizes control over a blockchain account.
RPC endpoint
A server interface used by wallets and applications to read blockchain data and submit transactions.
Seed phrase
A human-readable backup that can recreate a wallet and its private keys.
Slippage
The difference between an expected trade result and the result accepted on-chain.
Smart contract
Program code deployed to a blockchain that executes according to its rules.
Validator
A network participant authorized by the consensus and staking system to produce or attest blocks.
How to use this glossary
Use the term as a starting point, then open the relevant pillar or guide before acting.
Primary sources
Revision record
- Baseline research questions and direct answers were reviewed.
- Operational facts are separated from interpretation and linked to primary documentation.
- Future revisions should record material changes rather than only refreshing the date.