# Public Key

> An address-like value that other people use to send you crypto. Safe to share.

Canonical URL: https://fudfomo.co/glossary/public-key
Source: What The Block! Dictionary v1.0 (last updated 2026-04-25), browsable at https://wtb.fudfomo.co.

## Definition

A public key is the partner of your private key. It is mathematically derived from the private key, but you cannot work backwards from the public key to the private one.

Most wallets show you a shorter version of the public key called an address. You can paste that address anywhere, and people can use it to send you crypto without ever putting your funds at risk.

## Related terms

- [Private Key](https://fudfomo.co/glossary/private-key): A secret string of characters that proves you own a crypto address. Anyone who sees it can spend your funds.
- [Wallet](https://fudfomo.co/glossary/wallet): An app or device that holds the keys you need to spend and receive crypto.
- [Seed Phrase](https://fudfomo.co/glossary/seed-phrase): A list of 12 or 24 ordinary words that backs up an entire wallet.

## See the full catalogue

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