geek

geek · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A person who is very knowledgeable and enthusiastic about a specific subject, especially technology or computing.

  2. 2.

    (originally derogatory, now often embraced) A person perceived as socially awkward or unfashionable due to their intense focus on intellectual interests.

  3. 3.

    (as a verb, informal) To study or engage enthusiastically with a topic.

Forms

plural: geeks

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    geek out — to become very excited about a particular topic
  • •
    geek chic — fashionably nerdy style
  • •
    computer geek — someone very knowledgeable about computers

Related words

See also: dork, enthusiast, nerd, techie
Synonyms: enthusiast, nerd, techie

Etymology

From Low German geck ("fool, simpleton") or related Dutch gek ("crazy"). Originally used in American carnival slang for a performer who did bizarre acts. The modern positive sense emerged in the late 20th century with the rise of technology culture.