Degen

“Degen” is short for “degenerate” and is a slang term in crypto culture describing traders or investors who take high-risk bets, often on speculative assets like meme coins, NFTs, or early-stage tokens. While the term started as an insult, it’s now embraced by many in the community as a badge of boldness or adventurousness.

The Spirit of the Degen

Degens typically dive into volatile markets without deep research or risk management, hoping for outsized returns. They thrive on hype, trends, and quick flips, frequently operating in the most unpredictable corners of the crypto space. Social platforms like X (Twitter), Discord, and Telegram are common gathering spots for degen activity.

Why It Catches On

Degen culture reflects the fast-paced, experimental nature of crypto. While risky, it has helped surface early projects and drive innovation. However, it also highlights the need for education and caution, especially for newcomers tempted by quick gains.