[Facts] Constantine's bizarre nickname
I've noticed that many Greek-Americans called Constantine (a fairly common Greek name) have adopted the name Gus. I have absolutely no idea how Gus became a nickname of Constantine. Any ideas?
Replies
It is a mystery akin to why every Mexican man I've ever met named Jesus, goes by the nickname 'Chewie' (chew-ee).
Poor deluded guys! I've known several, and they've either been Dino or Con.
There's a kid at church called Constantine that everyone calls Costel, but that's kind of irrelevant.
Cheers and long live the Wizzygoths,
Cassie
Cheers and long live the Wizzygoths,
Cassie
Could find any answers though Bartleby's entry on "Given Names" presents the following info on some of the name changes adopted by Greek immigrants: "The Greek Athanasios is changed to Nathan or Tom, Panagiotis to Peter, Constantine to Gus, Demetrios to James, Chasalambos to Charles and Vasilios (Basil) to Bill."