Meme coins, also known as "cryptocurrency meme coins," are a type of digital currency that have gained popularity due to their association with internet memes and online communities. These coins typically operate on blockchain technology, similar to other cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum, but they often have distinct features and characteristics.

Meme coins are usually created as a form of satire or social commentary, and their value is often driven by the community's interest and engagement rather than underlying utility or technology. They often adopt names, symbols, and themes based on internet memes, celebrities, or popular culture references.

One of the most well-known meme coins is Dogecoin (DOGE), which was created in 2013 as a lighthearted cryptocurrency featuring the Shiba Inu dog from the "Doge" meme. Dogecoin gained significant attention and a dedicated community, partly due to its association with various internet communities and its widespread use for tipping and charitable donations.

Meme coins can experience extreme price volatility, with significant fluctuations in value based on social media trends, celebrity endorsements, or coordinated community efforts. They have gained attention and popularity through platforms like Reddit, Twitter, and TikTok, where users discuss, promote, and speculate on these coins.

It's important to note that meme coins often carry a higher level of risk compared to established cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin or Ethereum. They may lack long-term viability, utility, or underlying fundamentals, and investing in meme coins can be highly speculative and unpredictable. It's crucial to conduct thorough research and exercise caution before engaging in meme coin investments.