Startup Glossary - Learn the Key Terms Like First Users, Early Adopters, and Traction

Essential terms and definitions for startups, entrepreneurs, and early adopters. Understanding these concepts will help you navigate the startup ecosystem more effectively.

Users

First Users

The first group of people who use your product. They validate your idea, provide early feedback, and create the initial traction your startup needs to grow.

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Users

Early Adopters

Tech-savvy users who love discovering new products before they go mainstream. They offer feedback, report bugs, and help startups reach product–market fit faster.

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Growth

Startup Traction

The measurable momentum of a startup, often shown by user growth, engagement, or revenue. It signals market validation and attracts investors.

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Strategy

Product-Market Fit

When your product solves a real problem for a specific audience and users are willing to pay or stick around. Achieving product–market fit is a key milestone for startups.

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Growth

User Acquisition

The process of attracting and converting new users to your product. It includes marketing, outreach, and onboarding strategies that drive growth.

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Users

Beta Users

Early users who test your product before the official launch. They provide feedback, uncover bugs, and help improve your product before it reaches the public.

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Strategy

Pre-Launch Audience

A group of potential users you build before launch through email lists or communities. They create early momentum and support your product launch.

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Strategy

Startup Launch

The process of releasing your product to the public for the first time. A well-executed launch can generate buzz and accelerate user growth.

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Growth

Growth Hacking

Creative, low-cost tactics for rapidly growing a user base. Popular among startups aiming to scale quickly with limited resources.

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Strategy

Customer Feedback Loop

A system for collecting, analyzing, and acting on user feedback. It helps startups improve their products quickly based on real user insights.

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Strategy

Minimum Viable Product (MVP)

A basic version of your product built to test assumptions and gather feedback. It helps startups validate their idea before investing heavily in development.

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