Birth of a nickname - John McWhorter
437,606 Views
1,335 Questions Answered
TEDEd Animation
Let’s Begin…
Where do nicknames come from? Why are Ellens called Nellie and Edwards Ned? It’s all a big misunderstanding from the early days of the English language, a misunderstanding that even the word nickname itself derives from. John McWhorter tracks the accidental evolution of some familiar diminutives.
About TED-Ed Animations
TED-Ed Animations feature the words and ideas of educators brought to life by professional animators. Are you an educator or animator interested in creating a TED-Ed Animation? Nominate yourself here »
Meet The Creators
- Educator John McWhorter
- Animator Lippy
- Narrator John McWhorter
