Private key
A secret number that proves ownership of Bitcoin and authorizes transactions. Whoever holds the private key controls the funds.
Public key
Definition
Your public key is mathematically derived from your private key, but the process only works in one direction — no one can figure out your private key from your public key. Bitcoin addresses, which you share to receive payments, are created from public keys.
Example
Your Bitcoin address is created from your public key — safe to share, like an email address.