What Does NERD Mean in a Text?
The term NERD is generally accepted to describe a "clever but socially awkward person." Of note, however, NERD is quickly moving away from a word with a negative connotation (i.e., to brand someone as uncool). Recently, NERD has evolved into a more positive term that simply describes someone with a passion for something (i.e., a science NERD, a music NERD, or a food NERD). It is even starting to take on a cool edge, and increasingly more people are happy to have themselves labelled as a NERD.
Image for NERD
When I write NERD, I mean this:
A NERD is someone who excels in a subject deemed to be uncool.
Summary of Key Points
Definition for NERD
NERD means "Clever but socially awkward person." This is the most common meaning for NERD on social-media platforms such as Twitter, Facebook, and Snapchat.
Examples of NERD in Sentences
Here are examples of NERD being used in conversations:
- Tony: Hey, have you been watching the new series about space?
- Jordan: No, NERD. I have a social life.
(Here, NERD is offered with a negative connotation.)
- Tony: Can you fix my PC please. You're an IT NERD.
- Jordan: Of course.
- Tony: You're a star. Thanks.
(Here, NERD is offered with a positive connotation.)
An Academic Look at NERD
NERD is used as a noun (i.e., a naming word). For example:
- You are the biggest Maths NERD I've ever met.
(Here, NERD is being used as a noun.)
What Did We Say before Texting and Social Media?
Before the 1950s, when NERD was first introduced into society, we might have said something like "drip" or "square" instead of NERD.
Example of NERD Used in a Text
NERD
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FAQs
1. : an unstylish, unattractive, or socially awkward person. 2. : a person devoted to intellectual or academic pursuits. nerdy.
What is the full meaning of nerd? ›
The noun nerd is used to describe someone who is an expert in one particular thing, like computers, grammar, or "Star Wars" movies. Nerd can also mean someone lacking social skills, or a geeky, awkward person. The word nerd was popularized in the 1950s after showing up in the 1950 Dr.
What does "nerd" mean in slang? ›
noun slang. 1. a stupid, irritating, ineffectual, or unattractive person. 2. an intelligent but single-minded person obsessed with a nonsocial hobby or pursuit.
Is it OK to say nerd? ›
It's usually considered an insult, though not always a serious one. Sometimes people will describe themselves as a nerd in a self-deprecating way. Things that nerds like to do aren't "cool", so the word nerd is usually used in a negative sense.
Who can be called a nerd? ›
Nerds tend to be associated with specialized technical knowledge, more interested in detailed theory than trends, and more given to serious study of a subject matter. Both are now considered far more desirable for their expertise and enthusiasm for even esoteric topics than in the past.
Does nerd mean smart? ›
Nerd: “socially awkward” and “an intelligent but single-minded person obsessed with a nonsocial hobby or pursuit” Geek: “a digital-technology expert or enthusiast” and “a person who has excessive enthusiasm for and some expertise about a specialized subject or activity”
When a guy calls you a nerd? ›
What does it mean when my crush calls me a nerd? They might just be kidding around. If your crush has known you for a while and if you're already buddies, they probably think you understand their sense of humor. If they feel really relaxed around you, they'll feel that they can get really silly around you.
Why are nerds called nerds? ›
Some say that the candy was named after a reference in the Dr. Seuss Book, If I Ran the Zoo, where a “nerd” is mentioned as one of the creatures the narrator would collect for his zoo. However, most people today assume the candy has something to do with those of us who devoted our lives to our homework.
What is a positive word for nerd? ›
Synonyms of nerds
- geeks.
- genii.
- wonks.
- bookworms.
- dorks.
- weenies.
- scholars.
- geniuses.
Geeks are “collection” oriented, gathering facts and mementos related to their subject of interest. They are obsessed with the newest, coolest, trendiest things that their subject has to offer. nerd -A studious intellectual, although again of a particular topic or field.
While there's certainly nothing wrong with being a nerd, and certainly nothing wrong with being yourself, sometimes life demands we act as social chameleons. Whether its for a job fair or for meeting a new group of people, there are occasions where some harmless conformity is necessary.
Do girls like nerdy guys? ›
Contrary to what the media may say, girls like nerdy guys. Intelligence and humor are traits that all girls appreciate, so show her your smarts, passion, and funny side.
Can a nerd be a girl? ›
People often feel they cannot be feminine and nerdy. However, this is not true. Many nerd girls enjoy a nice dress or skirt that meshes well with the nerd style. Mini-dresses often look like something out of a superhero movie.
What is a female nerd called? ›
"Geek girl" is a 20th-century term, signifying a gendered subgenre within the modern geek subculture.
What are signs of a nerd? ›
Here are ten surefire signs of nerdom from an unconventional nerd:
- You like books more than you like people.
- You take great joy in questioning everything.
- Chemistry jokes are endlessly funny to you.
- You're very particular about the TV shows you watch.
- You secretly love reading your World History textbook.
The nerd aesthetic started to be seen as cool way before ppl are saying! It started in the late 90s with rise of indie rock/ alternative music, hot girls an tattooed guys started wearing buddy holly glasses and cardigans.
What is a geek vs nerd? ›
Geeks are “collection” oriented, gathering facts and mementos related to their subject of interest. They are obsessed with the newest, coolest, trendiest things that their subject has to offer. Nerd - A studious intellectual, although again of a particular topic or field.
What is an example of a nerd? ›
a person, especially a man, who is not attractive and is awkward or socially embarrassing: He was a real nerd in high school - I can't believe he's so handsome now. a person who is extremely interested in one subject, especially computers, and knows a lot of facts about it: I'm a real grammar nerd.
What is another word for nerdy? ›
much given to learning and thinking a fringe party of nerdy political activists who have no chance of getting elected. intellectual. cerebral. geeky. nerdish.
What's the difference between a nerd and a geek? ›
Nerds typically enjoy highly intellectual hobbies and games that are done alone or one-on-one. Geeks tend to enjoy pop culture and they may share their interests more often with others. (Of course, many nerds enjoy a few geeky things and many geeks enjoy a few nerdy things.)
