The term is often used by critics or skeptics of the cryptocurrency industry, and is generally not considered a compliment. Some common reasons that a cryptocurrency might be called a shitcoin include a lack of adoption or use, a poorly designed or executed technology, or a lack of transparency or trustworthiness in its development or management. However, the term is highly subjective and can be used to refer to any cryptocurrency that an individual or group deems to be unworthy of investment.