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ArchivesRe: Nicknames (JACK)
in reply to a message by Lauren
Hi!
JACK is quite easy to explain: It is derived from Jan-kin, a pet form of Jan (a common form of John used in many countries), Jankin became Jackin, later the -in was dropped.
Now CHUCK, according to Hanks & Hodges '92, is not originally a pet form of Charles: "It derives from the English term of endearment, itself probably from Middle English chukken = to cluck (of imitativ e origin)."
A lot of nicknames were created by children, some by reduplication (such as Mimi for Miriam or Maria), others just in some fancyful way beyond explanation (Polly for Mary). I guess misunderstanding is also a very common source of new creations.
Andy
JACK is quite easy to explain: It is derived from Jan-kin, a pet form of Jan (a common form of John used in many countries), Jankin became Jackin, later the -in was dropped.
Now CHUCK, according to Hanks & Hodges '92, is not originally a pet form of Charles: "It derives from the English term of endearment, itself probably from Middle English chukken = to cluck (of imitativ e origin)."
A lot of nicknames were created by children, some by reduplication (such as Mimi for Miriam or Maria), others just in some fancyful way beyond explanation (Polly for Mary). I guess misunderstanding is also a very common source of new creations.
Andy
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Replies
Thanks! I've always wondered about those! Now I know! :)
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