Nerd: meaning, definitions and examples

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nerd

[nɜːrd ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

smart

A person who is extremely interested in a particular subject, especially one related to computers, and is not considered cool or fashionable by other people.

Synonyms

brainiac, dork, geek.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
nerd	This term is often used to describe someone deeply interested in academic or intellectual pursuits, and is considered slightly less socially inclined. While the term can be negative, it is also frequently embraced by those who identify with it. He's such a computer nerd; he knows everything about them. In school, being a nerd might mean getting teased, but in the tech world, it's a badge of honor.
geek	This term is generally used to describe someone with a deep passion for certain technical or niche subjects, often related to technology, gaming, or comics. It has grown more positive over time and can be seen as a point of pride. He's a real computer geek and loves building his own PCs. Every year, she attends the comic book convention with all the other geeks.
dork	Often used more playfully or endearingly, this term typically describes someone who is socially awkward or has unusual interests. It can be negative but is frequently used among friends in a teasing, affectionate way. Stop being such a dork; come dance with us! I feel like such a dork in this costume.
brainiac	This word usually refers to someone very intelligent or intellectually gifted. It's often used in a complimentary manner. The new team member is a real brainiac; she solved the problem in minutes. Everyone thinks of him as the brainiac of the group.

Examples of usage

He's a real nerd when it comes to technology.
She's such a nerd, always reading books about science.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

awkward

A person who is socially awkward, unpopular, or unstylish.

Synonyms

misfit, outcast, socially awkward person.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
nerd	Used to describe someone who is extremely interested in academic or obscure subjects, often in technology or science, sometimes with a lack of social skills. 'Gary is a computer nerd and can fix any tech problem '
misfit	Refers to someone who does not fit into a particular group or society, often due to different interests or behaviors. It can carry a slightly negative connotation. 'As a teenager, Lily always felt like a misfit among her peers '
outcast	Used for someone who has been rejected or cast out from a group or society, often used in a more serious or dramatic context. 'After the scandal, he became an outcast in his community '
socially awkward person	Describes a person who struggles with social interactions or feels uncomfortable in social situations. This phrase is neutral and focuses on the social skill aspect. 'Being a socially awkward person, Anne finds it hard to make new friends '

Examples of usage

He's a total nerd, always stumbling over his words in front of others.
She felt like a nerd in high school, never quite fitting in with the popular crowd.

^{Context #3 | Noun}

obsessive

A person who is overly enthusiastic or obsessed with a particular hobby or interest.

Synonyms

aficionado, enthusiast, fanatic.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
nerd	This term is typically used informally to describe someone who is very interested in academic pursuits, technology, or niche hobbies. It can sometimes have a negative connotation implying social awkwardness. He's a computer nerd who loves coding all night. In high school, some people called me a science nerd.
enthusiast	This term can be used to describe anyone who shows a strong interest and excitement about something. It is a general, positive term without any negative implications. She is a gardening enthusiast who spends hours in her backyard. He is an enthusiast of vintage cars.
fanatic	This word describes someone who has extreme and intense enthusiasm for something, often to the point of obsession. It can have a negative connotation when describing excessive behavior. He's a sports fanatic who never misses a game. Her fanatic dedication to fitness sometimes worries her friends.
aficionado	This word is often used to describe someone who is very passionate and knowledgeable about a particular subject, often related to arts, culture, or hobbies. It has a positive connotation. She is an aficionado of classical music. He is a film aficionado and has an extensive collection of rare movies.

Examples of usage

He's a history nerd, can talk for hours about ancient civilizations.
She's a total movie nerd, always quoting lines from her favorite films.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The term 'nerd' is believed to have originated in Dr. Seuss's book 'If I Ran the Zoo' published in 1950, where it referred to a small, strange creature.
Initially a slang term in the 1960s, it was used to describe socially awkward individuals who were academically inclined.
Over time, the meaning has shifted from a pejorative to a badge of honor for many who embrace their interests.

Pop Culture

Television shows like 'The Big Bang Theory' popularized nerd culture, portraying characters who are proud of their geeky passions.
Nerdy characters in films, like Peter Parker from 'Spider-Man,' often highlight the intersection of intelligence and superhuman traits.
Comic-Con conventions have transformed into major cultural events where nerds celebrate comics, movies, and gaming, showcasing their passion.

Psychology

Research shows that individuals often identify as nerds may possess high levels of cognitive ability in specific areas, such as mathematics or science.
Being a nerd can provide a strong sense of community, as like-minded individuals bond over shared interests and hobbies.
The rise of the 'geek culture' has led to a decrease in the stigma once associated with being a nerd, promoting acceptance and inclusion.

Technology

The tech industry has many successful leaders who proudly identify as nerds, such as Steve Jobs and Bill Gates, shaping the modern world.
The increased accessibility of technology has led to the acceptance of previously niche interests, allowing more people to identify as nerds.
Nerd culture has significantly influenced the development of video games, programming, and online communities that focus on collaborative learning.

Education

Many schools and universities now embrace geekiness through programs and clubs that celebrate science, technology, and arts.
Nerd culture promotes lifelong learning, encouraging individuals to continuously explore their passions and share knowledge with others.
In educational settings, nerds often excel due to their dedicated focus and enthusiasm for complex subjects.

Translations

Translations of the word "nerd" in other languages:

🇵🇹 nerd

🇮🇳 गीक

🇩🇪 Nerd

🇮🇩 kutu buku

🇺🇦 ботанік

🇵🇱 kujon

🇯🇵 オタク

🇫🇷 intello

🇪🇸 nerd

🇹🇷 inek öğrenci

🇰🇷 공부벌레

🇸🇦 مهووس

🇨🇿 šprt

🇸🇰 šprt

🇨🇳 书呆子

🇸🇮 pifljar

🇮🇸 nörd

🇰🇿 оқымысты

🇬🇪 წიგნის ჭია

🇦🇿 oxuyan

🇲🇽 nerd

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #31,587 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.

...
31584 sulkily
31585 gnomes
31586 ceremonially
31587 nerd
31588 sachem
31589 adumbrated
31590 relived
...