Seed Phrase
A 12–24 word backup that regenerates your entire wallet — the master key every private key in your wallet is derived from.
A seed phrase (also called a recovery phrase or mnemonic) is a list of 12 to 24 words chosen from a standard word list. It encodes the mathematical seed from which a wallet generates all of its private keys.
Why one phrase controls everything
Because every key is derived from the same seed, the seed phrase alone can restore all your accounts, balances, and transaction history on any compatible wallet. Giving someone your phrase is equivalent to giving them your entire wallet.
Safe handling
Write the phrase on paper and store it offline — never in screenshots, cloud notes, or messages. Multiple paper copies in different secure locations is the standard best practice for self-custody.
Related terms
Private Key, Wallet, Self-Custody, Hardware Wallet