HODL
A crypto slang term for holding assets long-term rather than selling during volatile markets.
HODL originated from a 2013 Bitcoin forum post where a frustrated user typed 'I AM HODLING' instead of 'holding'. It became a meme and then a genuine investment philosophy: holding Bitcoin (or other crypto) through volatility rather than trying to time the market.
The term is sometimes backronymed as 'Hold On for Dear Life', reflecting the gut-wrenching price swings common in crypto markets. HODLers argue that short-term volatility is irrelevant if long-term adoption increases, and that most active traders underperform simple long-term holding.
HODL culture has become a meaningful social phenomenon that provides communities with shared identity and psychological support during bear markets. It also underpins the 'Bitcoin as long-term savings vehicle' thesis.