Semantic Payment Metadata
Structured data describing payment terms for machine processing.
What is Semantic Payment Metadata?
Semantic payment metadata is structured, machine-readable data that describes payment requirements, such as amount, recipient, or method, using semantic web standards like RDF. In the x402 protocol, this metadata is included in HTTP 402 responses, enabling automated agents to understand and process payment instructions contextually. For example, an agent could use semantic metadata to negotiate a deferred payment scheme, ensuring compatibility with diverse payment rails or licensing agreements.
Related Terms
Oracle (Prediction Market)
A trusted source that provides off-chain data to resolve the outcome of a prediction market contract on a blockchain.
Fast Payment Systems
Instant electronic fund transfer systems operating 24/7 for retail transactions.
EIP (Ethereum Improvement Proposal)
A standardized process for proposing and implementing changes to the Ethereum protocol.
Bridge
A protocol or service that enables the transfer of digital assets or data between two distinct blockchain networks, such as moving ETH from Ethereum’s mainnet to a Layer 2 scaling solution.
Gas (Ethereum)
A unit measuring the computational effort required to execute transactions or smart contracts on Ethereum.
Crypto
A shorthand term for cryptocurrency - digital currencies secured by cryptography and operating on decentralized networks.