We have all thought about this. What is with nicknames? A nickname is supposed to be “short” for someone’s first name. Yes. Like “Nick,” for Nicolas.
But so many do not work that way. Where in the heck did “Peggy” come from? Margaret has no “peg” in it anywhere. Yes, I can see “Margie,” or “Marg.” Perhaps “Meg.” But “Peggy?” And while we are at it, my name, “MOLLY,” is supposed to be a nickname for Mary. I don’t understand. This is a pet peeve. If I had a nickel for every time someone asked me if my name is really Mary, I could buy a Starbucks every single day.
And my God. “Bob” has nothing to do with Robert. “Rob” does, but who decided to put the B in there? Oh, I can go on. “Bill.” No B in William.
“DICK” for Richard???? And of course, where and when did that nickname become associated with a genital?
If your name is James, then why “Jack?” Both one syllable. What is gained by this? And “Fanny” for Francis? Insulting. Get this: “Nancy” is a nickname for Anne. A two syllable nickname for a one syllable name? Who invented this?
Let’s talk about “Hank.” Or “Harry.” What’s wrong with Henry???
You catch my drift.
So here are some just as ridiculous nicknames I invented:
Marcia–Let’s nickname her “Sophie.” Why not?
I see no reason not to call Bernard “Bill.” There’s a B in there, right?
I would like to call Martin “Shroeder.” Just as logical as any other nickname.
If a girl is named Penelope, I think “Penny” is too typical. So everybody should call her “Elo.” It’s IN THERE.
Now, there is another whole school of nicknames for kids that sprang from nowhere, or a mispronunciation of the name, or an endearing moniker. This is very common. It is not stupid, really. It is totally understandable and widely accepted.
My first child,”Tweeny,” might disagree.
