Dork: meaning, definitions and examples

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dork

[dɔːrk ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

slang

A dork is a slang term for a silly, awkward, or socially inept person. It is often used in a light-hearted or teasing manner.

Synonyms

doofus, geek, nerd.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
dork	Use this word to describe someone who is socially awkward or clumsy in a playful or affectionate manner. It can be used both positively and negatively depending on the tone. John tripped over his own feet again. He's such a dork!
nerd	Similar to 'geek', this term refers to someone who is very intelligent and deeply invested in academics or niche interests. It carries a mixed connotation but is often used positively. Tom is such a math nerd; he spends all his time solving complex equations.
geek	Appropriate when referring to someone who is highly enthusiastic and knowledgeable about a specific subject, particularly in areas like technology, science, or pop culture. This term has become more positive over time. She's a computer geek; she can fix any issue with your laptop.
doofus	This term is often used in a teasing or mocking way to call someone silly or foolish. It's generally less affectionate than 'dork' and can have a more negative connotation. You forgot your keys again, you doofus!

Examples of usage

He's such a dork, always tripping over his own feet.
Don't be such a dork, lighten up and have some fun!

^{Context #2 | Noun}

informal

In informal usage, a dork can also refer to someone who is overly studious or obsessive about a particular topic.

Synonyms

enthusiast, fanatic.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
dork	Use when referring to someone who is socially awkward or not fashionable, often in a teasing manner but not necessarily mean-spirited. Jake is such a dork, always tripping over his own feet. She laughed and called her brother a dork when he wore mismatched socks to school.
enthusiast	A neutral term for someone who has a strong interest or admiration for a particular activity or subject, often used in formal or polite contexts. He is a car enthusiast who spends his weekends working on vintage vehicles. As a cooking enthusiast, she loves trying out new recipes and techniques in her kitchen.
fanatic	Refers to someone with extreme and often excessive or obsessive enthusiasm for a particular activity, ideology, or subject. Can have a negative connotation, implying lack of reason or balance. She is a fitness fanatic who never misses a day at the gym, even when she's sick. Political fanatics can sometimes be very difficult to have a reasoned discussion with.

Word

Description / Examples

dork

Use when referring to someone who is socially awkward or not fashionable, often in a teasing manner but not necessarily mean-spirited.

Jake is such a dork, always tripping over his own feet.
She laughed and called her brother a dork when he wore mismatched socks to school.

enthusiast

A neutral term for someone who has a strong interest or admiration for a particular activity or subject, often used in formal or polite contexts.

He is a car enthusiast who spends his weekends working on vintage vehicles.
As a cooking enthusiast, she loves trying out new recipes and techniques in her kitchen.

fanatic

Refers to someone with extreme and often excessive or obsessive enthusiasm for a particular activity, ideology, or subject. Can have a negative connotation, implying lack of reason or balance.

She is a fitness fanatic who never misses a day at the gym, even when she's sick.
Political fanatics can sometimes be very difficult to have a reasoned discussion with.

Examples of usage

She's a real dork when it comes to collecting stamps.
He's a dork for knowing so much about Star Wars.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The term originated in the 1960s, where it was believed to be a blend of the word 'nerd' and possibly a slang term from a 1960s comic strip.
It initially referred to a foolish or awkward person, but its meaning has shifted to include endearing qualities over the years.

Pop Culture

The 2001 film 'Zoolander' featured a character called 'The Dork' who embodies the comedic traits associated with being awkward.
In the popular animated series 'Freakazoid!', the protagonist represents a classic example of a dorky character who displays a blend of humor and intelligence.

Psychology

Studies suggest that people labeled as 'dorks' often excel in creativity, as they may think outside traditional social norms.
Social dynamics indicate that while some might view dorks negatively, they tend to build deeper friendships based on trust and shared interests.

Literature

In literature, dork-like characters often serve as proxies for intelligence and independence, challenging traditional hero stereotypes.
The 'geek' and 'dork' archetypes are frequently found in coming-of-age stories, highlighting themes of identity and acceptance.

Technology

The tech industry embraces 'dork' culture, often celebrating the quirks of programmers and innovators who break the mold of conventional social behavior.
In the rise of the 'nerd culture', dorks are seen as trailblazers in technology and gaming, representing the growing acceptance of diverse personalities.

Translations

Translations of the word "dork" in other languages:

🇵🇹 idiota

🇮🇳 मूर्ख (moorkh)

🇩🇪 Trottel

🇮🇩 bodoh

🇺🇦 дурень

🇵🇱 głupek

🇯🇵 バカ (baka)

🇫🇷 idiot

🇪🇸 tonto

🇹🇷 aptal

🇰🇷 바보 (babo)

🇸🇦 أحمق (ahmaq)

🇨🇿 hlupák

🇸🇰 hlupák

🇨🇳 白痴 (báichī)

🇸🇮 bedak

🇮🇸 heimskingi

🇰🇿 ақымақ (aqymaq)

🇬🇪 ჩლუნგი (chlungi)

🇦🇿 axmaq

🇲🇽 tonto

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #36,550, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.

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36547 pictograph
36548 joyfulness
36549 kisser
36550 dork
36551 underplayed
36552 bantered
36553 whammy
...