# Who is a Crypto Degen? By [dailycryptodegen](https://paragraph.com/@dailycryptodegen) · 2024-06-15 --- A crypto degen is a [cryptocurrency](https://www.techopedia.com/definition/27531/cryptocurrency) trader who frequently engages in highly speculative and risky trades. The word ‘degen’ is derived from the word ‘degenerate,’ which is often used as a derogatory term in gambling circles to describe a gambling addict who bets money or [assets](https://www.techopedia.com/definition/23367/digital-asset) that they cannot afford to lose. ### **Techopedia Explains** The term ‘crypto degen’ is not considered a disrespectful term within the [crypto community](https://www.techopedia.com/cryptocurrency/best-telegram-groups-crypto). In fact, crypto enthusiasts often boastfully refer to themselves and others as crypto degens. The term has endeared itself within the [meme](https://www.techopedia.com/definition/16944/internet-meme) culture and has even evoked a strong sense of camaraderie within the community. Crypto degens have always carried themselves to be different from investors in traditional asset markets. They tend to speak openly about their investing mistakes on [social media platforms](https://www.techopedia.com/definition/4837/social-media) and love to poke fun at themselves. They are seen as passionate and committed members of the crypto community who are very vocal about their love for their favorite [token](https://www.techopedia.com/definition/4140/token) and project. Passionate crypto degens actively participate in community building activities and [beta testing](https://www.techopedia.com/definition/27136/beta-test-gaming) and offer valuable feedback and ideas to their projects. They tend to be over-confident at times. It is not unusual for them to declare on X (formerly Twitter) that they plan to “ape in” on their favorite token. They love to use terms such as “LFG” when their crypto rises and “[HODL](https://www.techopedia.com/definition/hold-on-for-dear-life-hodl)” when it drops. --- *Originally published on [dailycryptodegen](https://paragraph.com/@dailycryptodegen/who-is-a-crypto-degen)*