Tuesday, April 21, 2009

The "How-To" Guide to Nicknaming

According to Wikipedia, the art of nicknaming originated in ancient Viking culture. Along with their nicknames, Vikings were given a special status which created a bond between the person who issued the nickname. Unfortunately, this trend didn't catch on in the rest of the world and nicknames have been carelessly tossed around ever since.

After being inspired by a movie full of beautifully crafted nicknames ("I Love You Man"), I have decided to take it upon myself to educate the masses on the intricacies of nicknames. I will begin with classifying different types of nicknames and the general info behind them. Now lets begin with 5 simple techniques.

1. Generic nicknames. Examples: Dude, Bro, Big guy.
These nicknames are thrown out a lot and are in almost everyone's vocab. I would highly suggest these if you forget someones name and you are trying to get their attention. Otherwise, these nicknames are very boring and show a lack a creativity.

2. Bro+famous persons name. Examples: Bro Montana, Bro Namath, Tito Broha
Popularized by "I Love You Man", this technique can be very comical. This also requires some brain power, but is very rewarding once you come up with a new name to put "Bro" into.

3. Friend's name+made up ending. Example: Sam-o-rama, Sam-ster, Sam-meister
I believe this first gained popularity with Rob Schneider's "Copy Guy" skit. This is a very fun technique and is easy to use right off the top of your head.

4. Friend's name+ Famous name. Example: Sammy Adams, Sammy Davis Jr., Sampson
This is a personal favorite of mine. Not only are there tons of names to choose from, it's also really fun to use. Plus this can used for practically all names. Basically a freakin' great technique to use.

5. Nonsensical words. Example: m'gooch, jobin, city slicka
Also popularized by "I Love You Man", this technique is for those of you who aren't so quick on your feet. This nickname is used by going ahead and stammering whatever it is your thinking of when fumbling for a good nickname. Along with usually being hilarious, it can also lead to nickname that sticks for the rest of your life.

This could be a little overwhelming to those that are nicknaming beginners, but don't worry, the skills will come with time. Just make sure to practice, practice, practice. Also, if I left out your favorite technique, leave a comment so I can include it in my next nicknaming update. Until then...
see ya later Dude von Dudensteins

KC

4 comments:

  1. Keats, I really should have been consulted on for this post. Two other very effective nicknaming techniques:

    1. The opposite/inconceivable nickname - Say you have a friend who really enjoys wearing a t-shirt from a 5K Fun Run but it is obvious he has never run a 5K in his life, thus you nickname him "5K". Or say you have a friend who is particularly clumsy and not very athletic, you could nickname him "Grace".

    2. The characterization/exaggeration nickname - Say you have a friend who is on a diet you could nickname him "South Beach".

    NC

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  2. Oh man I forgot those. I'll have to add them to the next nickname post.

    Also dad's favorite the random name that has no connection to the person's actual name. Keaton=Bill. Kyle=Marty. Eric=Chris. The list could go on forever.

    KC

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