English dictionary, thesaurus, translations & etymology
FreeDict.com
adj

nerdy

NUR-dee
Quiz me More like this

Nerdy (adj) means resembling or characteristic of a nerd; intensely into intellectual or niche interests. Example: “He has a nerdy obsession with train schedules.”

adj
1
Resembling or characteristic of a nerd; intensely into intellectual or niche interests.
"He has a nerdy obsession with train schedules."
"Their nerdy debate about superhero physics went on for an hour."

How to use nerdy

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishDescribes someone or something with a strong, geeky enthusiasm for a specific topic.

Common pairings
nerdy joke nerdy hobby a bit nerdy
Vocabulary Flow
Build your vocabulary from words like nerdy.
Vocabulary Flow serves the next word, and the next — meaning, pronunciation and an example each time. Practice at your level, or learn English in your own language.
Start vocabulary practice

Word forms

Comparative
nerdier
Superlative
nerdiest
Test yourself on “nerdy” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

He has a _____ obsession with train schedules.

Etymology

From nerd + the adjective-forming suffix -y.

Frequently asked questions

What does “nerdy” mean?
The word “nerdy” means resembling or characteristic of a nerd; intensely into intellectual or niche interests. In plain terms, describes someone or something with a strong, geeky enthusiasm for a specific topic.
How do you pronounce “nerdy”?
“Nerdy” is pronounced NUR-dee (/ˈnɜː(ɹ)di/ in IPA).
How do you use “nerdy” in a sentence?
Here is “nerdy” used in a sentence: “He has a nerdy obsession with train schedules.”
What part of speech is “nerdy”?
“Nerdy” is an adjective.