NFT Metadata
Plain English
The information that describes an NFT - its name, description, image, traits, and other properties. Usually stored off-chain (on IPFS or other storage) with just a link stored on the blockchain. This metadata makes NFTs more than just unique numbers.
Technical
Structured data describing NFT properties including name, description, image URI, attributes, and provenance information. On Solana, metadata follows Token Metadata Program standards with on-chain pointers to off-chain JSON files. Metadata immutability, decentralized storage (IPFS), and standardization (OpenSea metadata standards) are key considerations for long-term NFT value preservation.