# Terminology

* [**XRPL**](https://docs.xrplevm.org/pages/users/introduction/what-is-the-xrpl): XRP Ledger, built and launched by Ripple Labs in 2012, is a decentralized and open-source blockchain designed for fast and efficient payments. It uses XRP as a gas token.
* [**Axelar**](https://axelar.dev/): A decentralized interoperability network designed to connect blockchains and enable seamless cross-chain communication. It provides secure messaging, token transfers, and general cross-chain smart contract execution.
* [**XRPL EVM Sidechain**](https://docs.xrplevm.org/pages/users/introduction/what-is-the-xrpl-evm): An EVM-compatible blockchain directly endorsed by Ripple, with smart contract functionality using Proof-of-Authority Consensus. It is connected from XRPL through Axelar and uses XRP as gas token, combining XRP’s efficiency with Ethereum’s flexibility for Solidity development.

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For clarity and brevity, we use the term "**EVM Sidechain**" in lieu of "**XRPL EVM Sidechain**" hereafter.
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