Nerd Definition(s)

[DarthMaximus]

I was just curious what everybody's definition of what a nerd is. Is it what you do or who you are? If you collect comics or toys, does that necessarily make you a nerd? Thoughts?

[Amidala Starkiller]

I don't think comics or toys make you a nerd. It's just a hobbie like sports, crafts, etc...

[ObiWanFTW]

nope,comics and action figures dont make you a nerd.some women have collections(like ducks or unicorns).A nerd is someone who has no clue what the world is about or how life functions.I can assure you we are FAAAR smarter than that dude.

[D-Vader]

nerd:
1. A foolish, inept, or unattractive person.
2. A person who is single-minded or accomplished in scientific or technical pursuits but is felt to be socially inept.

I usually just use the nerd term just to tease with. Kinda like 'geeking out', you know, someone knows way to much on a subject, or obsesses in an unattractive way....

[auntbeast]

I have to weigh in on this one. Being at the university, I am surrounded by nerds!

Really, I have to lean towards Toby's definition on this one except for the whole unattractive part. Some nerds are HOT. For example, I kinda put David Duchovney in the nerd camp. I see nerds as smart and/or quirky individuals who have little use for playing by mundane social rules. They are infinitely more interesting than the status quo.

Does collecting things make you a nerd? I say no. Does being really "into" something make you a nerd? Again, I say no. Nerds and non-nerds alike have hobbies and interests just like Elizabeth mentioned. I just find that nerds tend to have more interesting hobbies. I think nerdiness can be summed up as intelligence + creativity + a little bit of rebellion against the status quo.

In my book, nerdliness is a good thing. I think if we all embraced our inner geek the world would be a far more interesting place.