How to Tell the Difference Between Nerds and Geeks
The terms "nerd" and "geek" are often used interchangeably, but they are not the same. Both terms can be viewed as either endearing or pejorative depending on how they applied, by whom, and to whom. And there is always passion aplenty involved in the definition and application of either term. This article will help you to tell the difference between nerds and geeks, with ample room for your own subjective interpretation!
1.
Understand the terms. While the terms are often used interchangeably by people "less-in-the-know" (as well as some people who self-apply the labels "geek" or "nerd") and there is often an overlap in characteristics[1], there are important distinctions to be made.
The term "nerd" was apparently coined in 1954, possibly from the Dr Seuss line "A nerkle, a nerd, and a seersucker too!"[2] A nerd could be viewed as someone with an extremely intense interest or fascination in an academic field of study (often an obscure field) or similar cerebral pursuit. Being a nerd is typically associated with intellect, as a nerd often enjoys specialising in complicated fields of study. Nerds may also have difficulties socialising with others, as many tend towards being introverted, although it is also said that a nerd cannot be bothered with developing social skills while busy with other interests.[3] Nerds often gain a strong and diverse skill set from their studies and experiences, which may at times be unorthodox or impractical. Nerd interests may cover a broad range of interests, from movies to games (video and table-top) to more practical skills such as computer science.
--Very likely to be a rocket scientist, a renowned yet reclusive professor, a scientist, an intellectual, a computer programmer, an engineer, an inventor, etc.
The term "geek" is often said to have originated from circus performers in sideshows, referring to those who performed bizarre feats.[4] However, its earliest meaning is, "one who is regarded as foolish, offensive, worthless, etc."[5] Today, the term has taken on a positive slant and a geek could be viewed as someone with an interest or lifestyle having to do with niche activities, especially fandoms such as Doctor Who or the Avengers and technology.[3] It is not uncommon for a geek to be capable of reciting large amounts of knowledge that is unintuitive, intriguing, and (at times) long-winded. The knowledge could be anything from the mundane to “living encyclopedia” status.[3] Unlike nerds, geeks tend to have average grades. Geeks can vary in their interests (ex. anything from (film) to collecting plastic figurines to heavily technological interests like computing, hacking, and programming). Urban Dictionary goes so far as to suggest that society still views computer programming as a "bizarre feat" and the term "geek" is a proud label reflecting this.[6]
*Likely to be a gamer or Star Trek fan, a technological enthusiast, a film series/book series buff, a free-spirited (not malevolent) technology hacker, a creator of unusual objects (artist, etc.), etc.[7]
Note that the interests of nerds and geeks often overlap. Most nerds enjoy the more intellectual forms of science fiction and most geeks have a higher knowledge of science or encyclopedic data than the general population.
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