Glossary Term
Smart Contract
A smart contract is a self-executing program on a blockchain like Solana that automatically enforces, verifies, and executes agreements and logic without the need for intermediaries. Smart contracts are foundational for powering DeFi, NFTs, DAOs, and many decentralized applications (dApps).
Beginner
Technology
Crypto Terminology
Smart Contract: what is it?
Examples
- 1
Solend lending platform using smart contracts to automate borrow/lend logic.
- 2
NFT minting and marketplaces (Magic Eden) using contracts for ownership and transactions.
- 3
DAO governance on Realms and Squads enforced via on-chain voting contracts.
- 4
Decentralized swaps and trades executed through Serum and Orca’s smart contracts.
Common Use Cases
DeFi platforms (lending, trading, staking).
NFT minting and marketplace operations.
Automated payment or payout distribution schemes.
Governance voting in decentralized projects or DAOs.
Building custom dApps and token utilities on Solana.
Pro Tips
💡
Use blockchain explorers to view smart contract code and past transactions before engaging.