Mint

Minting is the process of creating new tokens or cryptocurrencies on a blockchain. It can refer to generating native coins within a blockchain network (e.g., issuing new ETH as a reward for validators) or creating tokens that follow specific standards, such as ERC-20 for fungible tokens or ERC-721 for NFTs.

For NFTs, minting means registering a unique digital asset (such as an image, music file, or in-game item) on the blockchain, ensuring its authenticity and ownership. This process is typically executed via smart contracts and often requires a gas fee. In DeFi, minting can also refer to the creation of collateralized assets, such as stablecoins backed by crypto deposits, like DAI in the MakerDAO system.