Geek versus Nerd

Question

Hi.I have heard the words geek and nerd many times in movies. Longman dictionary considers them as synonymous.  But according to the context I have heard, they do not seem synonumous. I would be grateful if you tell me the excat meaning of each and point out any differences they might have. thanks for your time

Kheironschool · Accepted Answer

Hi
I would say that 'geek' and 'nerd' are almost synonymous with a small difference.
'Nerd' means someone who is very intelligent and studies hard, whereas 'geek' means someone who knows a lot of information about random or specific things (such as a gadget or film). Both can be offensive or complimentary depending on the context.

Hope this helps!
Kheiron School of English
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Avangi · Answer

hrsanei Longman dictionary considers them as synonymous.
But according to the context I have heard, they do not seem synonumous.Without researching this, I'll say I believe "geek" is the older term, and originally implied physical and social awkwardness. Those who were able, spent their time in the library, avoiding pursuits requiring physical ability and social skills. When computers arrived on the scene, they became computer geeks, still lacking in physical prowess.

I believe the later term, "nerds," is applied to people of superior mental ability who pursue technical and intellectual pursuits (usually avoiding the physical) by choice. That is, they're not necessarily awkward.

I think to say someone is "geeky" usually refers to the way they present themselves physically (awkward), while to say someone is "a geek" can also refer to their choice of activities.

I hope I'm not too far off base!

These days I'm sure there's no difference between those who work for "Geek Squad"
and those who work for "Nerd Force."

Have you tried Urban Dictionary, hrsanei?

Hrsanei · Answer

Thanks for your reponse.

Believe it or not, urbandictionary is filtered in Iran. I have to use proxy.

Vorpar · Answer

Geek really changed its meaning. It originally meant a specific type of freak show performer.

CalifJim · Answer

I could be way off, but to me those words have these connotations:

nerd -- emphasis on being socially inept and/or inappropriate

geek -- emphasis on excelling in things technological

That said, many nerds are geeks and many geeks are nerds.

CJ

Avangi · Answer

My son, like you, takes them in the oposite way from mine.

Vorpar's comment is significant. I now recall that meaning.

I believe a certain amount of that sense continues.

Geek versus Nerd

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