geek
Geek (noun) means a person deeply and enthusiastically interested in a particular subject, often technology, science fiction, or games. Example: “He's a total computer geek who builds his own PCs.”
How to use geek
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSomeone very into a particular hobby or subject, especially tech — nowadays usually said with pride rather than as an insult.
Unlike decades ago, calling someone a "geek" about a hobby today is often a compliment, not an insult.
Trace the full origin ↓Word forms
geeked past tense, geeked past tense, geeks plural, geeks plural, geeks singular, geeks singular
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
He's a total computer _____ who builds his own PCs.
Etymology
Originally carnival slang for a sideshow performer who did shocking stunts, itself from an old dialect word geck meaning "fool" — the meaning shifted over the 20th century from "oddball" to today's more affectionate "enthusiast."
Synonyms
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Rhymes for geek
See all rhymes for geek →Frequently asked questions
What does “geek” mean?
The word “geek” means a person deeply and enthusiastically interested in a particular subject, often technology, science fiction, or games. In plain terms, someone very into a particular hobby or subject, especially tech — nowadays usually said with pride rather than as an insult.
How do you pronounce “geek”?
“Geek” is pronounced geek (/ɡiːk/ in IPA).
How do you use “geek” in a sentence?
Here is “geek” used in a sentence: “He's a total computer geek who builds his own PCs.”
What part of speech is “geek”?
“Geek” is a noun.
Where does the word “geek” come from?
The word “geek” dates back to around 1900.
Is “geek” a common word?
“Geek” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “geek” have?
“Geek” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a person deeply and enthusiastically interested in a particular subject, often technology, science fiction, or games.
What is the difference between a geek and a nerd?
Geek and nerd are closely related informal terms, with geek generally emphasizing enthusiastic interest in a subject like technology or science fiction, while nerd can carry a stronger connotation of academic or intellectual focus. In modern usage the two terms overlap heavily and are often used interchangeably.
Is geek still considered an insult today?
Geek was once used as a mild insult, but it has largely been reclaimed and is now often used positively or neutrally to describe someone with deep, passionate knowledge in a particular field.
Does geek always refer to technology enthusiasts?
No, while geek is commonly associated with technology and computing experts, it can also describe anyone deeply and enthusiastically interested in any specific subject, such as a "movie geek" or "history geek."
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