Geeks vs. Nerds
Revenge Of The Nerds
The terms “geek” and “nerd” have been thrown around as more general terms, and in turn have lost a lot of their original meaning. Both geeks and nerds have several key elements which are common to both of them. This may be part of the reason their meanings are often exchanged. While the definitions are similar, they do have different meanings.
Similarities
Both often have a genuine interest in “left brain” subjects, such as math, science, computers and video games. Both usually possess average to above average intelligence. The single most important and defining similarity is social deficiency.
Key Differences
The main difference between the two are their main interests and hobbies. Nerds lean towards the more practical and educational. Geeks lean more towards those with higher entertainment value. A nerd activity would be computer programming, while the geek equivalent would be playing computer video games.
Conclusions
Geeks and nerds are clearly very different. To be called a geek or nerd is, most certainly, derogatory in nature. As far as the pecking order goes, nerds definitely have the upper hand since a geek is basically a nerd without the smarts.