What is a node in the context of cryptocurrencies?

@garret_hahn 

In the context of cryptocurrencies, a node refers to a computer or device that participates in the network of a particular blockchain. It maintains a copy of the entire blockchain ledger, validates transactions, and communicates with other nodes to ensure the consensus and integrity of the network. Each node has its own copy of the blockchain and continuously updates it with new transactions and blocks. Nodes can be full nodes, which download and store the entire blockchain, or lightweight nodes, which depend on full nodes for transaction validation. By participating as nodes, users contribute to the decentralized and distributed nature of cryptocurrencies, ensuring that the network functions securely and efficiently.