Mempool
Quick Answer
The mempool is a holding area for unconfirmed transactions waiting to be included in the next block. Payment providers monitor it to set gas prices and estimate confirmation times.
Full Definition
The mempool (memory pool) is a holding area for unconfirmed transactions waiting to be included in the next block. When a user broadcasts a transaction, it enters the mempool where validators select transactions to include based on gas price. During high congestion, mempools fill up and low-fee transactions wait longer. Payment providers monitor mempool status to set appropriate gas prices and provide accurate confirmation time estimates.
Related Terms
Mainnet
Mainnet is the production blockchain where real transactions occur, as opposed to testnets used for development. Going live on mainnet means processing real customer payments.
Merchant
In crypto payments, a merchant is any business accepting cryptocurrency for goods or services, integrating via API, SDK, or hosted checkout to receive and settle payments.
Multi-Chain
Multi-chain means supporting multiple blockchain networks simultaneously, allowing customers to pay from whichever chain their funds are on without bridging first.
Multi-Signature (Multisig)
Multi-signature requires multiple private keys to authorise a transaction (e.g., 2-of-3 signers), used by businesses to protect treasury and settlement wallets.