Definition ∞ Transaction Fee Burn is a mechanism within a blockchain protocol where a portion or all of the fees paid for processing transactions are permanently removed from circulation. This process reduces the total supply of the native token over time, potentially creating deflationary pressure. The burn mechanism aims to align the interests of token holders with network usage. It contributes to the economic model of the digital asset.
Context ∞ The implementation of transaction fee burn mechanisms, such as those seen in Ethereum’s EIP-1559, is a significant topic in discussions about tokenomics and the long-term value proposition of blockchain networks. Debates often concern the precise impact on token supply, the sustainability of validator rewards, and the overall economic health of the ecosystem. Monitoring the amount of tokens burned provides a key metric for assessing a protocol’s economic activity and supply dynamics.