Ledger Wallet™ just got another major upgrade

Take control today

Upgrade your digital life

Ledger Wallet: Free from compromise

Download now Learn more

Degen Meaning

Mar 16, 2023 | Updated Jul 21, 2025
In the context of the crypto community, "degen" is short for "degenerate" and is often used to refer to a person who is involved in high-risk, speculative trading or investing in cryptocurrencies.

What is a Degen in Crypto?

The origin of the term “degen” can be linked to sports betting, where it was used as a shortened form of “degenerate”. Typically used as a derogatory term, it refers to bettors who place large sums of money without the necessary knowledge or expertise to support their bets.

“Degen” is a shorthand term used in the world of cryptocurrency to describe traders who engage in risky, speculative behavior without conducting proper research and due diligence. They are referred to as those who do not pay attention to metrics, tokenomics, fundamental analysis, or technical analysis, and may make buying decisions based on superficial factors like an asset’s logo or a catchy slogan. 

Despite its negative connotations, the term “degen” has been adopted by many in the crypto community as a badge of honor, indicating a willingness to take risks and embrace the industry. They are known to be typically committed to the projects and communities they invest in. 

Despite the potential for losses, degens are often seen as passionate and committed members of the crypto community. They may contribute to projects through active participation, offering ideas, feedback, and support to help build up communities.

Salt

Salt is a security technique that resists exploits by adding random data to passwords or other sensitive information before hashing them.

Full definition

Smart Contract

A smart contract is an agreement in the form of a computer program that automatically executes when predefined conditions are met.

Full definition

Brute Force Attack

A brute force attack is a trial-and-error method used to guess passwords, PINs, or encryption keys by testing many possible combinations.

Full definition
Image

Own your crypto future

Stay informed with security tips, updates, and exclusive offers from Ledger

Your email address will only be used to send you our newsletter, as well as updates and offers. You can unsubscribe at any time. Learn more

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.